MIAO, December 22: On the event of Hon’ble CM’s Visit at Miao the local Administration made a full proof security arrangement within the township. The VVIP landed at the land of Miao at 9:40 AM, he was accompanied by Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare Sri C.C. Singpho, Hon’ble, Parliamentary Secy. (Planning) Tsering Danduk, Chairman APPSC Sri Rinchin Dorjee, and Chairman Bamboo Development Agency Sri Tame Phassang. Later the VIP’s were received by Hon’ble MLA Sri K. Mossang, 50 Miao (ST) Assembly Constituency, Hon’ble Speaker Arunachal Legislative Assembly, Sri Setong Sena, Congress Seba Dal, Public Leaders, and Cultural troop.

After a little refreshment at Miao Circuit House at 10:10 AM Hon’ble CM visited Ratnagiri Vihar (Buddhist Temple) for inauguration of the new temple building, there the VIP’s were greeted by the Monks with Khata (Scarf) & gifts. Hon’ble CM addressed the gathering and prayed for good health, harmony, peace and wellbeing of the society.
From Ratnagiri Vihar Hon’ble CM and other VIP’s were welcomed by the gathering and Public Leaders at General Ground, The Hon’ble MLA Sri K. Mossang addressed warm welcome to the VIP’s and other dignitaries present. Hon’ble CM was honoured by the traditional dress and other gifts.
Meanwhile The Chairman Anchal Samity Sri Jawkhong Singpho submitted a Memorandum to the Hon’ble CM he was followed by address from ZPM Chairperson Changlang District Smti Junpo Jugli and BCCI President Miao Sri Gumjanong Singpho.
Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare addressed the mass and shared the idea of necessity of literacy upliftment and AIDS awareness as AIDS is an incurable disease only awareness among the people can check spreading of this deadly disease.
Further Hon’ble Speaker Sri Setong Sena also gave stress on raising the literacy rate of the region, he also pointed out the potentials of the unexplored resources of this area for scopes of future developments.
Hon’ble CM assured the public to take up the projects of 187 Km Miao-Vijaynagar Road, setting up of Thermal Power Project and Mini Oil Refinery at Kharsang as per the Memorandum submitted. He also added that the funds are been allotted for Miao-Namchik Road, Water Supply Project and other Schemes. CM also allotted Rs. 5 Lakhs for playground for students, 5 lakhs for Medical Department and 3 lakhs for Buddhist Monastery. He also announced that around 60 crores of Rupees has been allotted for various Schemes and Projects for the development of Miao Sub-Division.
Finally vote of Thanks was given by BCCI President, Changlang District Sri Sengchum Ronrang.
After having Lunch at Circuit House VIP’s Take off for Changlang.
(Report from CIC, Miao)

STATE CHIEF MINISTER AT CHANGLANG

CHANGLANG, December 22, 2008: State Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has called on the youth and people of the state in general and Changlang in particular to abstain from any kind of drug addiction which is at large looming the district. He said this in serious of public meeting at Miao and Changlang today. Khandu is on two days tour to Changlang and Tirap districts from today.

On arraival at Changlang Circuit House, Shri Dorjee Khandu, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh being received by Staffs of District Administration, Head of Departments, Officers and staffs from all departments

Drug addiction not only spoils himself but also ruins a family and the society, Khandu asserted.
Stressing for giving priority to education being the backbone of any kind of development, Khandu also emphasised on preservation of wildlife and tradition and culture.
Giving light on ongoing developmental activities in the district under various central and state schemes, the chief minister informed the gathering that the 1840 Kms long Trans Arunachal Highway under PMs package would include Changlang district head quarter with Kharsang through Namchik. He also revealed on Anti-Erosion scheme to the tune of Rs. 20 crores being implemented in Miao area and which is being funded by Asian Development Bank. In order to ensure safe and sufficient drinking water facility to the common mass, the government has sanctioned a sum of Rs. 2.30 Crores under SPA for Miao subdivision, Khandu further informed. He also disclosed that 5 road under PMGSY would be taken up soon in the district in order to connect all the rural villages with road connectivity. Improvement of Miao – Namchik road with an estimated cost of Rs. 20 crore under NLCPR have already been sanctioned and work is soon to be started, he added. He also informed that Mini Hydel Project at Vijoynagar under PMs package has been included.
Responding to the public memorandum at Miao which included 157 KM long Miao-Vijaynagar road, the CM assured to take up the matter with Government of India and also endorsed its essentiality. He also gave a positive nod to the demand of Thermal Power Project and Oil Refinery at Kharsang and promised to take up the matter soon. While announcing Rs,. 5 lacs for school ground for Hr. Sec. School Miao, and another 5 lacs for modification of Regional Diagnostic centre at Miao, Khandu promised to expedite the Sub-Treasury demand of Miao Sub-Division.
While at Changlang, Khandu on responding to 30 point memorandum, said that he would take up the demands on need based basis. He however assured to upgrade the existing CO Headquarter at Khimyang to EAC Hq. in coming cabinet meeting.
Mesmerised with the unique scenic beauty of Changlang district, Khandu agreed with the proposal of declaring the district a tourist circuit and assured to take up the matter. He however called on the people to keep their town and villages clean and hygienic and also stressed for maintaining hospitality with the tourists. He emphasised for drugs and polythene free district with peace for attracting more tourists in the area. He advised for uniform tariff for taxis and hotels.
While calling for judicious utilisation of all kinds of fund, Khandu advocated for inculcating work culture with the aim to benefit the needy. Considering the backwardness and under developed districts, Changlang and Tirap had been given priority by the government by creating new Department called DoTC with 25 Crores package for making it at par with other districts. He appealed the elected representatives to ensure that every penny is being utilised for the benefit of the masses.
Khandu announced that his government is ready to implement the 6th pay commission recommendation from January 1, 2009 and would be the first one in the entire North eastern states to implement it. He further informed that as discussed with all the HODs and members of CoSAAP recently, the government would be giving 6 months arrears in two instalments.
He further informed the gathering of recent visit of Thirteenth finance Commission members in the state.
Speaking on the day State Legislative Assembly Speaker Setong Sena stated that development does not only mean the infrastructural development but it should be engulfed with health, mind and education in order to attain the real development. He lauded the chief minister for his committed effort in taking ahead the state to a new height.
Health Minister C C Singpho on giving health tips, cautioned the public on the dreaded disease like HIV/AIDS. He revealed that the HIV AIDS have been spreading in the state like fire which needed to be contained immediately. He sought cooperation and support from all section of the society to create awareness amongst the rural mass on the dreaded disease.
Parliamentary secretary Planning Tsewang Dhondup while participating in the meeting advocated for collective responsibility for accelerating the pace of development in the state. Peace is prerequisite for development, he asserted.
In his welcome address Changlang South MLA and Advisor to CM urged the chief minister to look into the demand of Mini Hydel Project along with other demands under Khimayang Circle.
Local MLA W Pongte in his concluding address extended gratitude to the chief minister and his entourage for visiting the district and showering his development mantra.
MLA Kamlung Mossang endorsed the public memorandum and urged CM to consider it.
The meeting were also attended by Chairman State Bamboo Mission Tame Phassang, APCS Chairman, Rinchin Dorjee, Changlang DC Deepak Kumar, SP and other dignitaries.

Changlang, Nov.10: A peer team of National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) of The University Grants Commission (UGC) had visited here on 7th Nov to assess the strength and quality of Rang-fra Government College. The team was headed by Prof. R. R Singh, Chairman and Prof. Ganesh Hegde, as member. The peer team interacted with the Principal, B. K Bhuyan, NAAC Coordinator, Lecturers, Staff and students to know the first hand information of the institution.

CHANGLANG, August 23: The Changlang tenure was my best in my whole service life, said outgoing Deputy Commissioner of Changlang Hage Batt while relinquishing his charges to S.B. Deepak Kumar in a simple function here on Friday last (22nd August 2008). In his last meeting with district heads of department, Batt urged upon the officers to maintain the same tempo of coordination and cooperation amongst the departments as they have done in the Panchayat Raj election and do it again with same spirit in the ensuing Assembly election. Team work and collective decision made my stay here very pleasant, he pointed.
Batt, who jointed here in 2005 as Deputy Commissioner said, I have completed three years of service in Changlang district which is normally approved tenure of service period especially for DC. He added, I am happy to say that important task entrusted by Election Commission on Chankma matters was completed and appreciated by the Commission. Today, I am leaving Changlang with happy heart as people in district do love peace and it is coming back to be a peaceful district.

Taking over the charge, Deepak Kumar, IAS, congratulated Batt for his promotion to Secretary and requested for continuous support in the future. Extending best wishes to Batt in his future endeavours on behalf of the District Police, Changlang Superintendent of Police Kime Aya described him as a philosopher and man with an honest approach.

Newly appointed DC Changlang, S. B. Deepak Kumar, IAS speaking on farewell function and sitting next left to him is out going DC Hage Batt, IAS and Mrs. Batt

Heads of departments, administrative officers and other officials also spoke in the farewell meeting.
Earlier, Changlang Sub Divisional Officer B.J. Duia, in his welcome address said, I have learned balancing administration with human touch from the outgoing Deputy Commissioner and scientific analyzing from the new one, who was serving as Changlang ADC. He extended best wishes to both in their new duties on behalf of the administrative officers and officials of the district.

Diyun, August 18: 'The Changlang District in particular and the state as a whole has plenty of resources,' but due to non initiative of any viable policy in time, these natural resources could not be tapped, asserted state chief minister Dorjee Khandu while addressing a mammoth gathering at Diyun in Changlang district today. He was on one day tour to this remote circle head quarter.

We need to address the needs of our people and my government whose watchword is 'People First,' is committed to spearhead development of the state in all fronts, Khandu added. While disclosing about the state coming up with a pragmatic and investor friendly Industrial Policy soon which will incorporate the provisions which were absent in the Industrial Policies framed in the year 1994 and 2001, Khandu announced that the state shall under the Policy, exempt 99 % of VAT for the investors who plan to put up industries based on Hotel, Tourism, Food Processing etc. in the state. Industries should practically come up in the state for ensuring economic development, he assertively said.
Terming the recent visit of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh as a developmental watershed in the history of Arunachal Pradesh, Khandu proudly informed the gathering about over 20,000 Mega PM's Package announced for infrastructural development which includes 1840 KMs Trans Arunachal Highway from Tawang to Tirap, four lane highway to link Itanagar with Guwahati, 32 KM Railway Line from Harmuti to Itanagar, Green Field Airport at Itanagar, reactivation of existing airports at Tezu, Aalo, Ziro and Daporijo, modernising of ALGs, illumination programme through mini hydro projects for illuminating border village and construction of Secretariat and State Assembly Building.
He also advocated that sincere efforts are being made for successful implementation of PM's package and further assured that no stone would be left unturned in spheres of definite development of the state. Apart from proper monitoring of the PM's package as well as all other state and centre sponsored schemes, massive infrastructural projects have been initiated, the chief minister revealed.
While briefly informing about the initiatives taken up by him for accelerating the developmental activities in the state which was subsequently applauded by the gathering, Khandu said in order to ensure proper distribution of food grains and other basic amenities, we have decided to handover the entire PDS management to cooperatives.
The chief minister emphasised for collective efforts to root out communalism which is gradually engulfing the country and the world as well. He appealed the gathering not to give any room for such communal feelings in the state which is particularly famous for its peace loving people. Calling for hard work and commitment, Khandu urge the state people to extend their support for making Arunachal Pradesh a leading state in the country.
Responding to a public memorandum, Khandu assured to take up the appeal of up gradation of Circle Head quarter Diyun to EAC HQ. in next cabinet meeting on priority basis and further agreed to take up the demand of creation of separate Diyun CD Block, and urged the Rural development minister Chowna Mein, who was also present on the occasion to put up the proposal in the cabinet meeting. He also announced 1 crore for infrastructure building of School out of 3 crore proposal submitted by the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev T G Rimpoche, Chairman Hydro Power, urged the gathering to follow the path shown by Lord Buddha of peace, brotherhood and non violence. He called for conveying a strong message of love and peace from the state to the world community.
In his concluding address, Health and Family Welfare Minister C C Singpho who is also the local MLA of the area, extended his gratitude to the state chief minister for showing his kind-heartedness in announcing infrastructure package for the needful area. Singpho termed Khandu as a visionary leader, under whose guidance the state is immensely progressing.
Earlier, the chief minister after laying the foundation stone of Mahabodhi Society School hostel, highly praised the humanitarian service rendered by the Mahabodhi society in the area.
MLAs K Mossang, P Khimhun, Balo Raja, DIG Robin Hibu and various district officers and Panchayat leaders were present on the occasion.

CHANGLANG, August 15: On this momentous occasion, let us take a pledge to work tirelessly till we free ourselves from the shackles of poverty, ill-health, inequality, social injustice, intolerance and corruption. Let us also pledge to make our State, a peaceful, prosperous, and happy abode, said Wangnia Pongte, MLA, while addressing in the Independence Day celebration here today.
Extending his Independence Day greetings on the occasion of its 62nd anniversary, Pongte said this sacred day reminds us of our commitments towards the people. He added, the Congress Government led by our charismatic leader, Shri Dorjee Khandu with the blessing and guidance of Madam Sonia Gandhi, UPA Chairperson is putting sincere effort in bringing comprehensive development in the State. As committed, our Government has revived the Arunachal Pradesh Co-operative Apex Bank, streamlined the functioning of Public Distribution System and also working tirelessly in controlling corruption. It is also committed to provide a transparent, efficient and corruption-free government to the people. The fruits of development cannot reach to Aam Admi unless we insulate the administration from corruption and make the system impervious to corrupt practices, he pointed.
The Chief Guest while paying tributes to the martyrs and freedom fighters extended his appreciation for the dedicated service being rendered by the officers and staff of the State Government, the Central Government, Military and Para-military forces for the people of Changlang. He also conveyed his admiration to Gaon Burahs, youths, Panchayat and public leaders and the general public, for their contribution, in the development and maintenance of law and order in the district.
Pongte congratulated all the Government departments for their dedicated and concerted effort in bring all-round development in the district, especially in the fields of rural development, health and education, law and order, agriculture, horticulture, road connectivity, power, water supply and sanitation, animal husbandry and veterinary, industries, urban development, environment and forest and other social service sectors.
The Chief Guest announced that, in recognition for dedicated service, two persons from our district have been conferred with State Award. Gold medal has been announced in the State function at Itanagar for Shri Arif Siddique, Junior Engineer (Civil) of PWD, while Silver Medal for Shri Maita Morang, a senior citizen from Nampong, on the auspicious occasion of Independence Day.
Highlighting on the development in the district, the Local MLA informed that during the year 2007-08, under Border Area Development programme, 82 (Eighty-two) schemes were sanctioned and implemented in the district at the cost of about Rs.4.00 (Four) Crore. 99 (ninety-nine) schemes were sanctioned and implemented under MLALAD, at the cost of Rs. 2.5 Crore. Another 60 (sixty) schemes were implemented at the cost of Rupee 1.16 Crore, under District Decentralized Planning. He added we have been paying special attention to programmes for generating employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled rural people especially, unemployed youths. Vocational trainings are conducted for the youth and farmers by the department of Textile and Handicrafts. He appealed to the people to avail the opportunities. Pongte also appealed for preservation, protection and enhancement of the precious green wealth, the forest, which he said, has been one of the backbones of the development.
One of the senior political leaders of the State, Pongte while dwelling on road connectivity in the district said, I am happy to say that preparation and submission of pre-feasibility report of Trans-Arunachal Highway segment of Manmao-Changlang, that is 42.17 kilometer, and Changlang-Khonsa segment of 64.4 kilometer has already being completed by the Changlang PWD. All the structures, like buildings, private land, including cultivable and non-cultivable land, which falls within, the right of the way,' have been surveyed and tentative cost evolved, for payment of compensation to the owners. I would like to appeal the public, to cooperate, during the construction of the highway, which is a gift, from our beloved Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Earlier, the chief guest unfurled the national flag, inspected the parade contingence and took salute of the marching platoons. The parade contingents comprising of APP, NCC, Scouts and Guides and the Assam Rifles Band, which was led by the parade commander, Sub Inspector W. Wangsu and seconded by sub Inspector T. Dubi made a smart turn out.
School students of Holy Rosary School, Rang Frah Vidhya Niketan, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidhyalaya and Demonstration School of the Changlang Township presented entertaining and heart touching patriotic dances and songs. Highlights of the day were the Lesgym PT display by the NSS volunteers of Changlang Government Higher Secondary School and the scintillating band display by 25 Assam Rifles Band, commanded by Havaldar Hari Singh Rautela.
As part of the celebration, exhibition stalls were set up on the occasion, which was inaugurated by Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt. Department of Agriculture, Horticulture, DRDA, legal metrology, Industries, Assam Rifle, Arun Jyoty and schools had their stalls, exhibiting their programmes, achievements and demonstrated their innovative models.
The district administration conducted games and sports events, which includes 100 and 50 meters races, sweet biting and balance races, frog jump and cock fight competitions.
Later the Chief Guest and the Deputy Commissioner gave away prizes for the competitions organized on the day. In the March Past competition, Scout Platoon of Demonstration School, Changlang received the first prize, while APP Platoon received the second. The department of Textiles and Handicrafts received the best exhibition stall award.
Inspide of torrential rain, muddy parade ground due to continuous heavy pouring since last few day, large number of people turned up to participate and witness the function. With great enthusiasm and jubilation, people from all walks of lives were present to be part of the Independence Day celebration. The security forces were on alert to deal with any disturbance. No untoward incident reported during the day from any part of the district.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION AT JAIRAMPUR

CHANGLANG, August 15: Along with rest of the country, the 62nd anniversary of the Independence Day was observed with great prompt and show in the Jairampur Sub Division of Changlang district today. Government officials, Panchayat and public leaders along with general public and school children turned out to celebrated the day despite inclement weather. Chief Guest of the celebration, M. Roy, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jairampur unfurled the national tri colour and took salute of marching parade contingences.
Roy, who paid floral tributes to the father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and other freedom fighters, in his address called upon the new generations to hardness the fruit of the hard earned freedom by dedicating themselves to the cause of the nation.
Highlighting on the development in the subdivision, Jairampur Additional Deputy Commissioner appealed to all section of people to cooperate with the Sub divisional administration and other working agencies to further expedite the pace of development. He expressed his gratitude to all adult citizens for their whole hearted support and cooperation in the successful conduct of the recently concluded Panchayat election.
The Chief Guest, latter gave away Certificate of Admiration' along with a cash award of Rs. 1,000.00 (Rupees one thousand) each to two toppers each from tribal and non ST students of the Subdivision, who had secured highest percentage in the CBSE examination 2008. With approval of the government, he also declared the State Gold medal for Shri Arif Siddique, JE (PWD) and silver medal for senior citizen from Nampong, Shri Maitu Morang, given for their dedicated service to the people.
Other highlights of the day were the games and sports competition, cultural presentations and PT display.
No untoward incident was reported from any part of the sub division.

CHANGLANG, August 14: To encourage the school children to join Armed Forces for better career prospects, a weapons display was organized at Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang by Assam Rifles of 'Dah' Division at Changlang recently (12th August 2008). Various types of weapons and equipments used by Security Forces were on display. The children were explained and shown the various weapons with an aim of helping them know their security forces. This display also aimed to increased confidence of locals in the security forces and to build a better rapport among civilians and security forces stationed in the different parts of the district.

Large numbers of students and teachers of various schools attended the display. Children were very enthusiast and shown interest in it. The eagerness, curiosity and hunger for knowledge displayed by the children of Changlang towards knowing their security forces is a step towards a better informed and well informed populace.

DAH Division, 25 Assam Rifle displaying weapons to School children at Changlang

Later, an awareness camp on HIV AIDS was also conducted. An animation movie, developed by Stanford University, USA for Indians was shown on the occasion. The movie has an interactive session and it covers all aspects of HIV like immune system, HIV virus, how HIV virus spreads, how it can be prevented from spreading. During the session, the Students asked questions and clarified their doubts.
According to Assam Rifles sources, the medical team of the Para military force is planning to screen the HIV AIDS awareness movie to other students of Rangfrah Government College, Changlang. It adds, today good life, health, education, freedom to pursue their goals, is the cherished dreams of every youth. Generations have given their best to make life better for their off-spring. It is our duty, to do the same for our younger generation.
This gesture in development of youth is a well thought out action by the Assam Rifles of DAH Division which would lead to more positive interaction for the benefit of local populace.

CHAGLANG, July 31: Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt launched the 'Payroll,' an application of computerized process for salary bills preparation today by receiving the first printout of his salary slip for month of July from Finance and Account Officer W. Mossang CO.

DC Changlang Hage Batt receiving his first computerized Pay Slip from Finance and Account Officer W. Mossang CO as DIO Radhe Hinda looks on. Also seen in the Photograph are the Officers of District Administration and Head of Department attached to DC Office

Congratulating the officers and staff for the all important step towards e-governance, Batt said, it is the initiative of the Additional Deputy Commissioner S.B. Deepak Kumar and technical expertise of Changlang District Informatics officer Radhe Hinda, which have contributed in smooth preparation of pay bills of the office. Today we can prepare pay bills in three hours, which earlier took two weeks, he pointed. As the office has shortage of ministerial staffs, now, we can utilize the service of surplus staffs in Account Branch in other branches.
The Deputy Commissioner also congratulated the Account Branch for the achievement as its officers and staff worked hard even on holidays to enter all data.
Beaming with felicity, Batt said, as main office of the district, DC Office should always take the lead. It should also help other departments to computerize their payroll system. Now, our next target should be the Motor vehicle branch. Then it should be judicial branch.
Emphasizing on computerizing of Scheduled Tribe certificate, Permanent Residential Certificate and gun licences, as it take lots of time to check those bulky record books, the Deputy Commissioner said, time and again, queries comes regularly from recruitment centers on the subjects. He also called for early computerization of land records.
He, once again stressed on more batch-wise computer training for ministerial staffs.
Additional Deputy Commissioner S.B. Deepak Kumar said salary slips, giving the break-up of gross salary will be given only if asked for to reduce paperwork in the office.
Changlang District Informatics officer Radhe Hinda informed that the application has been developed by Arunachal Pradesh State Unit of National Informatics Center (NIC). The July pay-bills of officers and staffs of DC Office have been prepared using this software. Detailing the advantages of the computerized system, DIO said the bills generated are more accurate as compared to the manual system as chances of any calculation errors are eliminated. Also, the details are legible as over-writings been done away. Moreover, the salary details can be retrieved anytime, he added. DIO informed that Motor Vehicle computerization system and consumer Forum are under process.

CHANGLANG, July 30: Polling station-wise disposal of claims and objections for 53-Changlang (North) ST Assembly Constituency will be carried out from 7th to 18th August 2008, according to its Election Registration Officer M.C. Roy.
Giving details, Roy said, voters of Kuchep I, Kuchep II, Jungmaichung and Chokdok Polling stations, who have claims and objections are directed to present at their Polling Station between 9.30 am to 3.00 pm on 9th August 2008. Those of Rangkatu, Kengkhu and New Thamlom are to present at the same time on 10th August at the respective Polling Stations.
Voters with claims and objections of Rangrinkan and Namdang Polling stations are to present at Namdang on 11th August before 11.00 am and those of Longran and Coffee plantation may be present at Longran Primary School on the same day at 11.30 am. Concerned voters of Panikheti are directed to report between 2.30 pm to 5.00 pm.
The voters of 14 KM PWD camp, BSB Auditorium (East) and BSB auditorium (West) polling stations are asked to report at ERO Office, Changlang on 12th August.
Those voters with claims and objections of Changlang Club Building (East) and Changlang Club Building (West) are directed to report at ERO Office, Changlang on 13th August, while those of Laktong, PWD complex, New Changlang and Old Changlang Polling Stations are to present on 17th August at the same office.
Voters of Kongsa, Kutung and Ngoitang Polling Stations, with electoral roll problems are directed to present at EAC Office, Namtok on 14th August.
Those persons with claims and objections of Phangtip, Wowoi Subban and Jongphohate Polling stations are to present at Phangtip ME School on 16th August between 9.30 am to 2.30 pm, while those of Yangkan, Jongram, Nakan, Kangkho, Watlom, Phusa, Motong, Sumlam and Changra are directed to report at Circle Office, Yatdam on 18th August between 9.30 am to 3.30 pm.
Efforts are there for error free electoral roll and all the concerned elected representatives, Panchayat leaders, booth level officers and Gaon burahs have been apprised of the programme, ERO Roy, added.

CHANGLANG, July 29: Each one of us must put in an effort to contribute in the development of the district, said State Governor J.J. Singh, while addressing a meeting with Government officials, Gaon burahs, Panchayat and public leaders here today. There is need for united effort, he stressed, to bring the district at par with other districts of the State. I will give special focus on the district, he added.
Appealing to the youths of the district, Singh said, you have to leave the way of life lived by your forefather and strive towards progress and development. Citing entrepreneurship and self employment scope in field of organic farming, handicraft, cottage industries, tourism, herbal and bamboo plantation etc, he called upon them go for income generating endeavour for financial empowerment for each individual.
The Governor, while appealing for preservation of flora and fauna said, tomorrow we will be earning lots because of our green environment.
Dwelling on the Prime Minister package, the governor said, all the projects are time bounded programme and within next few years, the whole State will be transformed. Our future is very bright. The days are not far, when Arunachalees will be the riches people in India.
Extending his congratulation to the government officials for successful conduct of the recent concluded Panchayat election, Singh asked them, especially to the district Heads of department, to work for the benefit of the local people.
Replying to a seven point memorandum submitted by the Panchayat leaders, Singh assured his personal interest for immediate addressing of the points mentioned, which was received a loud applause. I will take up the matters with the State Chief Minister and concerned people in the Center. My sincere effort will be there for getting fund for the district from the State government, North Eastern Council and from Central Government.
Before concluding his speech, the Governor once again appealed for united effort with the popular slogan, "Chak De Changlang District."
Speaking on the occasion, local MLA W. Pongte dwelled on the problems of the district, especially lack of infrastructure, roads and education. Stating that the visit of His Excellency will give positive impact on the development of the district, the local representative urged upon the Governor for his initiative in addressing the people's hardship.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt expressed his faith that the visit would definitely open doors to development in the district.
Raisam Zongsam, speaking on behalf of the Goan burahs, pleaded the Governor for increase in their honorium from Rs. 250 to Rs. 2500 per month. He also apprised His Excellency on the problems faced by them from both the militants and security forces.
Submitting a memorandum, Khimiyang Zilla Parishad Member John Jugli appealed the Governor for his initiative in providing at least six specialists in the Changlang District Hospital, fire fighting truck with personnel and equipment, renovation of Margherita-Changlang road, handing over of Trans Highway Changlang part to BRO, lecturers for Rangfrah Government College and streamlining of PDS in the district.
Before, returning back to Itanagar, the Governor had a high level meeting with security officials and also visited Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang.

A warm traditional reception was accorded to the Governor during his maiden visit to the district headquarters. Troupes in their best attires and drums welcome the visiting dignitaries. The personnel of Arunachal Pradesh Police presented a guard of Honour on the occasion.

Retd. General J. J. Singh, Arunachal Governor receiving a presentation from Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang District on his maiden visit to Changlang

YOU HAVE TO WIN THE HEART AND MIND OF LOCAL PEOPLE: GOVERNOR TO SECURITY FORCES

CHANGLANG, July 29: You have to win the heart and mind of the local people, said State Governor J.J. Singh, while chairing a high level meeting of the security forces here today. You have to gain their confidence and trust to eliminate anti social activities in the district. Days are gone, where security personnels behaved like a 'Thanedar'. Today you have to have cordial relationship with all. The Governor pointed, along with that, a strong message should be sent to those terrorists through different channels that their presence will not be tolerated.
Former Army chief, who had earlier operated in the region as Colonel stressed on good intelligence and information gathering system to counter any undesirable activities.
Gen. Singh, while getting first hand reports on the case status from Changlang Superintendent of Police C.K. Mein asked the Deputy Commissioner to conduct regular coordination meetings. He also directed the officers from other security forces on counter insurgency duties to have proper coordination with the district administration and have cordial relationship with local population. Proper publicity must be given to any activity taken up by the security organizations for the up-liftment and social benefit of the local population, he pointed.
The Governor suggested that army medical specialists may be put in service in District Hospital from time to time to address lack of specialized medical practitioners in the hospital.
Earlier, a power point presentation was given by Brig Cherukupalli of 25 Sector Assam Rifle on the activities of the security forces under health, education, veterinary and employment programme for the local populace.
Changlang Deputy Commissioner, Hage Batt, DIGP, Robin Hibu and officers from different security forces attended the meeting, where detail discussion was held on counter insurgency operation.

THERE IS NO SHORTCUT TO SUCCESS: GOVERNOR TO STUDENTS
ANNOUNCES RS. 25000 FOR RENOVATION OF SCHOOL BUILDING

CHANGLANG, July 30: There is no shortcut to success, said State Governor, J.J. Singh while addressing the students of Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang, during his maiden visit to the District Headquarter on 29th July 2008. Always work hard and be a good and successful human being. As each one of you is special, you have to maintain high standard in the school and bring good names for your institution, he added. He also advised them to respect elders to be a good individual.
Touching on improving job oriented learning, the Governor stressed on the students to learn at least one foreign language, which he said will help in getting jobs in Multi National Companies and in foreign countries.
Dwelling in length on the initiatives of the State Government, the governor said, you are the future of the State and your future is very bright. You will be the part of rich and developed Arunachal Pradesh. He also enriched the children on the super power status of the country.
Assuring better facilities for the school, the Governor announced an amount of Rs. 25,000.00 (Rupees Twenty-Five Thousand) for improving basic facilities and necessary renovation in the school.
As token of love, His Excellency distributed pens, which he brought with him to Class monitors, Head boy and teaching staffs. He also distributed sweets for all other students.
Later, His Excellency distributed prizes to meritorious students. Master Subasish Ghosh of Class IX, who scored 85.4% in the Class VIII Internal Board, received the first prize while Master Pallab Borah with 76.4% received the second prize. Master Kushagra Kumar Pathak of Class X, who scored 93.8% in the Class IX Internal Board examination, received the first prize in his Class, while Miss Geeta Kumari Singh with 77.8% received the second prize from the Governor.
DIGP Robin Hibu, who was earlier an administrative officer at Changlang before joining IPS accompanied the Governor during the visit. The very presence of First IPS officer of the State, along with the Governor in the school on the day was an encouragement for the school children to excel in the lives.
Local MLA W. Pongte, Changlang Deputy Commission Hage Batt, SP C.K. Mein, Changlang ADC, S.B. Deepak Kumar were also present on the occasion.
Earlier, on his arrival at the school campus, the Governor was received by Changlang DDSE, T. Morang, Principal GHSS P. Tiwari and teaching staffs. He was escort to the School Assembly by NCC cadets and Bharat Scouts and Guides of the institution. Children present a patriotic song as a welcome note for the visiting dignitaries. All the students numbering to around 850 were present on the red lettered day of the school.

CHANGLANG, July 25: An applicant need not give any reason for seeking information, said S.B. Deepak Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Changlang while presenting a power point presentation on Right to Information (RTI) at Changlang on 25th July 2008. Onus of proof is on the Public Information Officer (PIO) and main focus on developmental institutions having fund involvement, he added.
Dwelling on role of PIO, Deepak Kumar said, the PIO must assist the applicants and there is no prescribed format as mandatory. Oral statements must be converted to written statements. Fees must be collected for each application or PIO must send formal request for payment. Proper registers must be maintained and proper receipt to be given to the applicant. Applications submitted to APIO or another PIO must be forwarded to the concerned PIO and intimation must be given to the applicant.
Deepak Kumar focusing on the time limit for disposal of the cases said, a case should be addressed within 30 days from the date of receipt of application. In case of matters concerning life & liberty of a person, it should be done in 48 hrs. Those cases involving third party should be addressed in 40 days, which includes 10 days for hearing of 3rd party before disclosure. 45 days for human rights violations by RTI exempted organizations, he added.
The subject specialist stressed for computerization of office to provide information in shortage time and with least expenditure. Suo moto disclosure and changing the mindsets is a must. He pointed, information means any material in any form including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advices, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force.
Touching on RTI Act, ADC informed that it is very small act with 6 chapters and 31 sections but has huge impact. It includes the right to inspect works, documents, records, take notes, extracts or certified copies of documents or records, take certified samples of material and to obtain information in form of printouts, diskettes, floppies, tapes, video cassettes or in any other electronic mode or through printouts.
Point on the subjects exempted from RTI, he said, information effecting sovereignty, integrity, security, strategic, scientific or economic, or other interests of the State, relation with foreign state or leading to incitement of an offence; Forbidden by courts; affecting privilege of Parliament or Legislature; commercial confidence, trade secrets or intellectual property, unless larger public interest so warrants and received in confidence from foreign government are exempted.
Deepak Kumar added information which endangers life or physical safety or identifies confidential source of information or assistance, impedes the process of investigation or apprehension, cabinet papers, till after the decision has been taken, and the matter is complete, or over, personal information which would cause invasion of the privacy unless larger public interest justifies it, infringes copyright and intelligence and security agencies are exempted, except for corruption and human rights violation charges.
Authority or institutions from where we can obtain information includes any authority or body or institution of self- government established or constituted by or under the Constitution; by any other law made by Parliament; by any other law made by State Legislature; by notification issued or order made by the appropriate Government and also includes any body owned, controlled or substantially financed and non-Government organization substantially financed, directly or indirectly by funds provided by the appropriate Government; Quoting Jerome K. Jerome, Deepak Kumar said, it is always the best policy to tell the truth, unless of course you are an exceptionally good liar.
The day-long training was attended by District Heads of Department and other officials dealing with the subject in their respective offices. During the interaction session, the officers cleared the doubts on how to provide information. HoDs actively participated in the sessions and presented some practical problems faced by them.
Changlang District Administration conducted the programme as many of the PIOs are not very well aware of the Act and its implications. It was an initiative of the district administration, as part of the State Government's strives to provide corruption free administration.

CHANGLANG, July 15: The insurgency activities in the district are coming to its end, informed Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt. In the last ten years 27 misguided youths have surrendered. Many more are willing to come over ground provided that they are resettled properly.
The Deputy Commissioner pointed, only problem is our rehabilitation package. Urging upon the administrative and security officers to take initiative in appealing and convincing the youths who have taken the other paths to come back as law abiding citizens, Batt said rehabilitation package to rehabilitate the surrendered militants will encourage more cadre to join mainstream. He suggested, the surrendered militants should be provided with vocational training in different trades for their rehabilitation. The Industrial Training Institutes may be established for these surrendered cadres. Financial assistance to enable them to engage themselves in constructive work and live in their native villages will go a long way in bringing normalcy in the area.
Since declaration of the district as disturbed area and imposing of the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 in 1998, efforts are always there to bring back our brothers who have taken the wrong path under compelling situations, he added. The district is peaceful as no untoward incident reported from any part in recent past. Citing Bordumsa incident, Deputy Commissioner pointed, it was a spilled over case as no local people were involved nor targeted.
Batt, who took over the charge of Changlang Deputy Commissioner in 2005 always ensured that efforts are there to bring back the local boys to mainstream. Persistent persuasions and relentless effort of Batt has made it possible that ten misguided youths surrendered in last two years. Large quantities of arms and ammunitions were deposited.

CHANGLANG, July 13: Admission in Distance Education starts from 18th August and ends on 30th August 2008, informed Principal Rang Frah Government College B.K. Bhuyan. He said, since private mode is withdrawn, all such fresh students will have to take admission in Distance Education mode under Institute of Distance Education (IDE) of Rajiv Gandhi University. The counseling and examination center will be at Rang Frah Government College, Longbusung, Changlang.
Bhuyan pointed, the students must note that 10% of the total assignment in each paper will be carried over to the final mark sheet. One must get at least 40% marks in each assignment and 33% marks in the theory papers subjected to aggregate of 35% to pass in examination. Attendence in at least ten contact programme of ninety minutes duration each, is compulsory. The examination will be in the middle part of July every year.
The effort of the institution's endeavour, will not only help in to arrest drop outs students but also will encourage those employed individuals to improve their education qualification.

CHANGLANG, July 11: Mining underneath you feet and you are not aware. This is what is happening in a border village of Changlang district. That too, the revenue from the mining goes to, not to the villagers but to some one else. The State of Arunachal Pradesh also does not receive any revenue for the coal extracted from its land.
Taking serious note of the activities, Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt along with Superintendent of Police Kime Aya, Divisional Forest Officer C. Simai, Namtok Circle officer W. Mossang and official from Land Record branch inspected the inter-state boundary located in Rangring area which is adjacent to the Namdang Coal Mine area of Assam on 10th November 2007.
While inspecting the said area, it was found that Coal India Limited had engaged few labours for carrying out open cast mining by encroaching land in Rangring area of Changlang District illegally. The illegal extraction of coal from Arunachal Pradesh has stopped with strict instruction to the labours of CIL not to attempt further extraction of coal from that area without permission from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh. Moreover, the team found some SP/OB type houses, power house, temple, labour camp and trolley line also have been constructed by CIL illegally in Rangring area of Changlang District for coal mining operation without the knowledge of Arunachal Pradesh government. These were probably constructed some 5 to 10 years back by the CIL.
Besides that, dumping of overburden and debris of open cast mines have been taking place in that same area. There are some underground tunnels situated on the Assam side of the inter-state boundary. Huge quantity of coal is being extracted through these underground tunnels. Further, the team also inspected Rangring Kan village area of Changlang District and it was found that some gas outlets of underground tunnel were found. These are situated well within Arunachal Pradesh territory. Out of these, few gas outlets have been sealed or abandoned by CIL. Most probably these outlets have been sealed to avoid any untoward incident and protect the emitting of pungent smelling of gases or smokes etc. Some, it was informed, were closed after getting complaints from the villagers. The team also observed that the gases or smokes are emitting from some outlets. Therefore, it is presumed that these outlets are in still active even now. It is also seen that no security fencing etc. have been erected around the gas outlets. Any untoward incident may occur any moment and it may cause danger for human life and animals.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Batt had written to the higher authority of State government stating the team presumed that the CIL extracting coal by underground mining from Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh by encroaching inter-state boundary. He added, but it is difficult to ascertain actual extent of encroachment without inspecting the underground mining by a technical expert team jointly by CIL and representative of Arunachal Pradesh. Every inch of land has owner and mining or any activities without the permission is illegal, Batt pointed.
It may be noted as instructed by the district administration; a team led by C. Simai, Divisional Forest Officer, Changlang earlier inspected the area with the help of toposheet and Global Positioning System (GPS) on 14th February 2006. The team found some active and abandoned pokers, i.e. cylindrical opening with 400 to 1000 ft deep well inside Arunachal Pradesh, near Rangring Kan village. It reported that these exhausts or ventilations are dangerous to human beings and its habitation. In some holes, attempts were made to shut the opening, but those are no less than camouflaged death pit. The team in its report said, it could not assess the underground mining activities inside Arunachal Pradesh as all the mining entrance start in territory of Assam. However presence of some infrastructures, pokers, coupled with common sense, the committee is in the opinion that underground mining beneath Arunachal Pradesh territory is going on.
With the help of GPS, an exhaust station for mining tunnel, with electric fans was found in 27°15' 36.0' N by 95° 43' 40.3' E at 691.7 ft height, which was guarded by two guards. The location is approximate 1 km inside Arunachal Pradesh. Another two adjacent poker holes were found at 27° 15' 40.8' N by 95° 43' 59.1' E at 856 ft height. It is hardly 1.0 km away from the village. The team noted that at 27° 15' 58.2' N by 95° 43' 46.3' E there is a flat abandoned land. According to villagers, the flat land was the village football ground. The villagers were compelled to shift to the present location of the village due to direct impact of mining, e.g. cave-in of earth, dumping ground and other harmful environmental effects.
Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt, who is tirelessly pursuing the matter as it is dangerous to the lives and properties of the local population ensured that a high level team inspect the area. And his effort brought result as a team led by A. Roy, Ex-Chief General Manager and GM (APMDTCL), but unfortunately the committee only recommended for taking up the matter with Ministry of Coal, Government of India. It will be appropriate if some concrete action is initiated to protect the lives of people and cattle of the local people of the area immediately.
Concerns of the Deputy Commissioner is genuine as if any untoward incident occurs in the area, he will be made accountable. Moreover, it is not very important whether the mining is active or stopped, but question still remains, whether State will ever get any revenue of the coal extracted from its land? Whether people of Arunachal Pradesh ever know the amount of extraction done from their land? What the CIL do to remove those death traps created by them in Rangrin Kan area of Changlang district?
As for now, the Deputy Commissioner has directed the administrative officer of Namthok to take all necessary precautionary measures along with awareness amongst the villagers regarding those gas outlets.

CHANGLANG July 10: A three-day training programme on Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP) for in-service medical officers of Changlang district is being conducted at District Hospital, Changlang from today. Medical officers from different Primary Health Centers (PHC) and Community Health Center (CHC) of the district are attending the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Changlang District Medical Officer, Dr. Pramathesh De called for proper implementation of the project in the district. Once implemented, it will be easier for all of us in sharing information and monitoring of any disease. Moreover, we can have distance training through video conferencing, DMO added.
Changlang District Informatics Officer, Radhe Hinda informed that IDSP of ministry of Health and Family Welfare covers all States and Union Territories of India. It aims to establish a suitable surveillance system for monitoring disease incidence and health parameters across the country. It also aims to provide various stakeholders sufficient information preferably instantaneously but certainly in shortage time so as to enable them to take suitable public health measure on the identified population.
DIO added, the project has three board components, i.e. setting up of IT infrastructure for national disease surveillance and information flow, training of health functionaries for knowledge up gradation using IT tools and lastly, strengthening laboratories for enhancing the accuracy of reporting.
Radhe further informed that National Informatics Centre has been entrusted with the turn-key responsibility of setting the IT infrastructure including the communication network. This World Bank assisted project is being implemented at a total cost of Rs.408.36 crore and will cover all the States and UTs in a phased manner. Phase-I starting this year will cover the 9 States of Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttranchal, Mizoram and Tamil Nadu spread over 206 districts. In Phase-II, 176 districts will be covered in the States of Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan, Orissa, Chattisgarh, West Bengal, Delhi, Goa, Chandigarh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura while the remaining 210 districts will be taken up in Phase-III. Fourteen districts of Arunachal Pradesh are covered till now. All the medical institutions of the country will be link through this project.
The diseases to be covered under the Project are most of the epidemic diseases such as Malaria, Cholera, Typhoid, Plague, TB, Polio and measles through regular weekly surveillance. In addition, road traffic accidents and unusual clinical symptoms such as meningeoencephalitis / hemorrhagic fever will also be included. In addition the States could potentially identify up to 5 States specific priority diseases for which public health response is required.
DIO pointed that all these requires broadband facility. The BSNL is supposed to have provided it, but till now there is no news from their end.
Earlier, welcoming the medical officers to the training programme, Changlang District Surveillance Officer Dr. P.Dutta urged upon the officers to sincerely attend it. He also dwelled on importance of the programme. Dr. H. Tangjing, one of the resource persons also spoke on the occasion.
The resource persons include Changlang District Surveillance Officer Dr. P.Dutta, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Changlang, R. Pathak, Data Manager (IDSP) and Dr. H. Tangjing.
The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. A. Ramadoss launched the Integrated Disease Surveillance Project on 8th November 2004 underlining the fact that the new scheme will bring about a sea change in understanding diseases patterns and monitoring risk factors for disease control and prevention. The IDSP is intended to be the backbone of public health delivery system in the country.

CHANGLANG, July 8: As part of the 59th Van Mahotsav celebration, along with other activities to commemorate the weeklong observation, the Changlang Social Forestry Division is distributing seedlings to government departments, educational institutions and to general public, informs Tage Mali, Forest Range Officer, Changlang. The Division is also going to hand over 1000 (One thousand) seedlings to the 25 Assam Rifles for plantation in their camp areas at Yanchik and Khimiyang. Efforts are also there to generate public awareness on preservation of the green treasure, Mali added.
Changlang Forest Range Officer informed that the social Forestry division has two nurseries, i.e. Namdang Forest Nursery, Namdang and Central Nursery, Changlang. FRO adds, inspite of fund constrain, we are maintaining seven lakh seedlings at Central Nursery and another five lakh in Namdang Forest Nursery. To encourage aforestation activities, the division has been distributing seedlings free of cost from time to time.

VAN MAHATSAVA CELEBRATED AT CHANGLANG GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS

CHANGLANG, July 6: The 59th Van Mahotsav is being observed in Changlang district with rest of the country during the first week of July 2008. As part of the celebration, the students and teachers of Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang enthusiastically took part in it. An effort was there to inculcate environment consciousness amongst the young minds to preserve, protect and enhance the green wealth of the State.
The School Principal P. Tiwari informed that to commemorate the week, plantations and essay writing competition were conducted. The final phase of plantation will be organized on 7th July which will be followed by prize distribution.

CHANGLANG, July 5: Along with rest of the Apatanis of the State, the members of the community in Changlang observed the Dree festival with traditional gaiety and flavour here today. Presentation of a colourful and entertaining Apatani cultural programme, fashion show on Apatani traditional attires and 'Dree O' (local Apatani beer) were part of the celebration. As customary, cucumbers and along with 'Dree O' and other Apatani cuisines were served to guests and invitees.
Former minister T. Taiju, Changlang ZPM Marina Kenglang, Col B. Robertson of 25 Assam Rifles and Heads of departments along with patrons of the festival here, Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt and Superintendent of Police Kime Aya and other guests and invitees attended it.
Highlight of the auspicious occasion was the 'Daminda' dance by one and all at the festival venue. Inspite of rain every one actively took part in it and had an opportunity to have a glimpse into the cultural life of the Apatani community.
Earlier, welcoming the guests and invitees to the celebration, the chairman of the organizing committee, B. Laling, DFSO, Changlang informed that as part of the celebration here, a football tournament, a volleyball tournament, tug of war competitions for men and women and handball for ladies were conducted. He added, there are 35 Apatani families in the district headquarters.
Dwelling on the mythology of the festival, Vice Chairman of the organizing committee Radhe Hinda, DIO, Changlang said, the word 'Dree' derived from the Apatani word 'Diiri' which means borrowing, purchasing and stocking of food items in anticipation of food scarcity. The Diiri piilo (month of borrowing, purchasing and stocking of food items) coincides July month of Gregorian calendar. So the 'Dree' is celebrated in the month of July. Originally, it was a simple performance of some rituals by the forefather Abotani to invoke some Gods ad Goddesses for bumper harvest and to control harmful insects and pests. Today, Radhe added, the community, wherever they are, they celebrate the festival as a mark of unity and ones of the community, without observing any agricultural related rituals. The Vice Chairman informed that, the common celebration of the festival was held for the first time on 5th July 1967 at Nenchalya field in Ziro. And the practice is followed till date.
Organizing Secretary Nani Taka, BDO, Changlang, who also spoke on the occasion, expressed gratitude to all for their gracious presence in the celebration.
Later, the Chief Patron Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang and other honoured guests distributed cash awards and certificates to the winners of the competitions organized to commemorate the festival, which was followed by a community feast.

CHANGLANG, July 4: The Department of Textile and Handicrafts, with the help of Department of Tirap and Changlang (DoTC) is conducting a month-long training programme for farmers on sericulture at Government Sericulture Farm, Nampong, 110 km from Changlang. The trainees are educated on up-gradation of silkworm rearing technology. Twenty local farmers are availing the training programme, which commenced on 1st July 2008.
J.P. Bora, Assistant Director, Textile and Handicrafts, Changlang informed that the programme has been taken up for the first time under DoTC schemes after going through the feasibility and importance of the sericulture sector. Bora said, the climatic condition of the district is suitable for commercial exploitation of four varieties of silk, i.e. Muga, Eri, Mulberry and Tasar, in comparison to the other States of the country, which are advanced in sericulture sector. Arunachal Pradesh, he added, is one of the traditional regions where sericulture is a part of the rural economy. ADTH pointed, the salient and unique features of the sericulture sector are such that it requires less investment, more employment and quick return. Thus, the practice of sericulture activities not only increases the economic status and living standard of the rural people but also generate employment opportunity to the needy ones.
Changlang Textile and Handicrafts Assistant Director, while highlighting on the programme informed that the main objective of the training programme is to popularize impact of sericulture and to extend the area coverage under this sector. The training also aims to create awareness on the latest culture techniques of Eri, Muga and Mulberry silkworm, rearing, reeling, spinning and plantation of silkworm food plants. The marketing is one of the important subjects of the programme, he added.

CHANGLANG, June 27: As the Photograph is must for all eligible voters now, house to house verification of Elector's Photo Identity Card (EPIC) is under process, informed Election Registration Officer, 52-Changlang (South) ST Assembly Constituency, H. Matcha. Along with verification, photography is also going on, he added.
Elaborately explaining on the process, the ERO informed that Booth Level Officer or BLO goes to house to house and verify the electoral roll. During the verification, they ensure that the voter enlisted in the roll is the correct person, photograph is matching with the individual and other details are in order. In case, person's photograph is not there, the team takes his or her photograph with a camera, already issued to the BLO. The voters do not have to give or deposit their photograph to the BLOs, Matcha pointed.
In case the voter has died or transferred to new address, due correction is made in the roll.
Matcha further stressed, in case some persons can't be contacted after several visits to their houses, notice is to be issued with an advice that they have to get themselves photographed at ERO's office on 6th July 2008. The voter should also be made to understand that if no photograph is found in the roll, their names will be deleted,.
House to house verification of photo electoral rolls and photography of residual electorals will be conducted in the district ends 7th July 2008. Entry of data and printing of photo electoral rolls for draft publication, including multiple printing of copies of basic rolls 2008 will be from 8th to 27th July 2008. Draft publication of photo rolls will be on 28th of July 2008.
Filing claims and objections will be entertained from 28th July to 6th August 2008 and its disposal will be on 20th August 2008. Entry of data and printing of supplement with photographs will be on 29th August 2008. Final publication of photo electoral rolls will be on 30th August 2008.
District Election Officer, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang has directed all the Electoral Registration Officer and Assistant Electoral Registration Officer to carry out all necessary arrangement for publication of Photo Electoral Roll as per the schedule. Along with wide publicity of the programme, they are also asked to conduct consultative meetings with political parties in their respective jurisdictions.
All the electors, who have Elector's Photo Identity Card or EPIC issued to them before 2005 are asked to return it to the District Election Office, Changlang.

CHANGLANG, June 20: The Changlang Branch of State Bank of India (SBI) has started its Core Banking Facility today. Inaugurating the facility, Changlang additional Deputy Commissioner, S.B. Deepak Kumar said, the core banking solution will be very helpful to all customers and their relatives. Along with speedy delivery, now there will be less queuing and people do not have to carry hard cash.
The chief guest of the inaugural function, Deepak Kumar extended congratulation to the SBI authorities for setting up the facility. He also appreciated the SBI for Community Service Banking under which the Bank is sponsoring cash awards to toppers in CBSE examinations and also adopt girl child.
While welcoming the guests on the occasion, Branch Manager Bengia Tabb said, CBS or the Core Banking Solution is the most important and necessary facility in banking today. It is, in other term, is 24 hours banking. Now, using the e-payment facility, they can pay telephone and electricity bills, purchase air and train tickets.
Bengia, who took untiring initiative in setting up of the CBS further informed that the branch is very soon going to install ATM facility at Changlang and urged upon the customers to apply for ATM debit cards. With it, bank officials will be less burdened. They can now go for promotional works like community service and awareness & educational campaigns.
He extended his gratitude to Dibrugarh Assistant General Manager V. Padhi and project managers of Dibrugarh and Jorhat for providing the facility here. Changlang SBI Assistant Manager, S.R. Patgiri also spoke on the occasion.
Later, Deepak Kumar distributed cash award to toppers of CBSE examination from Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang sponsored by SBI, Changlang. For Class XII Science, Master Bhupen Sharma received the first prize, while Master Ajo Jongkey got the second. For Class XII Humanities, Master Ratan Newar received the first and Master Niranjan Sarma got the second. They received a certificate and SBI passbook opened in their name with cash deposit of Rupees One thousand each.
Khimiyang ZPM John Jugli and Changlang ZPM Marina Kenglang also attended the function along with bank officials and customers.

CHANGLANG, June 20: Indian National Congress candidate and member of Miao Zilla Parishad constituency, Smti Junpo Taikam Jugli is the new chairperson of the Changlang Zilla Parishad, informed District Election Officer, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang. As there was only one nomination filed for the post reserved for women, the INC candidate won uncontested.
In her first address as the chairperson, Smti Jugli thanked all concerned for giving a woman an opportunity to chair such an important body. She also congratulated the DEO and his team for successful and peaceful conduct of the Panchayat election. While, assuring to shouldering the responsibility of Chairperson with best of her ability, Jugli urged upon the government officials and other members of the Parishad for the support and cooperation.
Earlier, presiding over the first meeting of the Zilla Parishad, DEO administered the oath of affirmations to the elected Zilla Parishad members, Shri Singdu Nong Singpho, ZPM Bordumsa, Shri Romesh Chandra Deori, ZPM, Diyun, Smti Junpo Taikam Jugli of ZPM, Miao, Shri Khingranong Tikhak, ZPM Nampong Rima Putok, Smti Joyo Longri, ZPM, Manmao Jairampur, Shri John Jugli, Khimiyang and Smti Marina Kenglang, ZPM, Changlang. He also congratulated the members and extended gratitude to them for the peaceful Panchayat election in the district.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad, Batt, while apprising on the other members of the Parishad said, along with the ZPM, members of Parliament, member of State Legislative Assembly and chairpersons of the Anchal samitis are the ex-officio members. The Additional Deputy Commissioner (Hq) is the member secretary.
Requesting the new chairperson to call the second meeting in near future, the Deputy Commissioner assured cooperation and guidance in implementing schemes and smooth functioning of the Zilla Parishad.
Taking advantage of the meeting, the DEO highlighted on the Election Photo Identity card and urged upon the leaders to get the voters to have EPI cards. He also requested them for their help in updating the electoral roll.

CHANGLANG, June 19: Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNS) are going to be set up in Changlang district. A high level district committee meeting was held in the office of superintendent of Police Changlang to discuss on the early implementation of the project. Changlang SP Kime Aya and Changlang District Informatics Officer, Radhe Hinda along with senior district police officers were present in the meeting. The meeting had in-detail discussions on making availability of NICNET and Community Informatics Centers (CIC) connectivity to the Police Stations (PS) to implement the CCTNS project, which is also know as Common Integrated Police Application (CIPA).
According to the Changlang DIO, the Common Integrated Police Application (CIPA) is a Government of India initiative for computerization of police stations activities. It aims at automation of all functions carried out at the police stations. Initially, only Registration Software Module has been taken up. CIPA software has been designed and developed by National Informatics Centre in English language with multilingual interface developed for Indian languages.
DIO added, implementation of CIPA project at police stations is being done in phase manner. In the first phase 10% of the police stations (1400 PS) of the country was been taken up and approximately 3700 PS are going to be cover in second phase. To monitor the project, a performa is designed to capture the implementation status of CIPA at the police stations. State Crime Records Bureau has been advised to send the fortnightly status of project implementation at their respective PS in the prescribed performa. Moreover, multi party video conferencing are also organized to speed up the work.
Radhe informed that CIPA is operational at 10% police stations of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttaranchal and West Bengal.
Changlang DIO further informed that five police stations are being taken up and two more will be done in the next phase. Hardware have been delivered at the project sites. Once implemented, Police Stations in Changlang, Bordumsa, Miao, Kharsang, Jairampur, Vijoynagar and Diyun will be connected online.
National Crime records Bureau (NCRB) and National Informatics Center (NIC) have conducted training programmes jointly on Crime Criminal Information System (CCIS) and CIPA at many locations, i.e. Nagpur, Guwahati etc. Central Development team imparts training to State Development Team, who is turn trains the supervisory level officers and handholding officials of the State.

CHANGLANG, June 6: The month-long training of clerical staffs of DC Office, Changlang has begun today. Ten trainees from different branches of the office are undergoing train programme on Microft Windows operating system, Internet browsing and Microsoft Office, i.e. working with Word, Excel, Power Point and Access. It is initiative of the district administration along with District Informatics Office, National Informatics Centre, Changlang district Unit as part an effort towards e-governance in the district.
Speaking on the inaugural session, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang exhorted the officials to sincerely attend the programme and abail maximum benefit out of it. He also urged upon them to take interest in every aspect. S.B. Deepak Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner, who also attended the first session of the programme said, computer knowledge, is the most important factor and necessity in today's life style. Computer is part of everyday life. He added, through internet we can easily communicate and share information in a globe way. Since computer knowledge is the need of the hour, we have taken up this month-long training course for our staffs in the office. Today, the training for the first batch, comprise of ten clerical staff has begun. Then we will take up with another and that way all the staffs will be made to now how to handle and work with computers.
Changlang District Informatics Officer, Radhe Hinda is imparting the training programme. He informed that stress will be on Microsoft Office, as we will need it in our daily official works.

CHANGLANG, June 3: District Election Officer, the Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt, informed the summary of recently conducted Panchayat Election in Changlang district, out of the seven ZPM seats, INC candidates secured six, while one, that of Changlang Zilla Parishad had gone to Independent candidate. 75 of the 101 Anchal Samiti seats had gone to Indian National Congress, while 26 to Independents.
Out of the 582 Panchayat seats, which includes 474 GPM seats in the district, 75% seats went to INC.
Changlang Deputy Commissioner has once again instructed the administrative officers to ensure that all the meetings, use of public announcement system and processions etc. during the post election periods be done only after obtaining due permission from them so that every activity is monitored, regulated and secured.
Changlang Superintendent of Police has directed for intensive patrolling and all Police Stations have been alerted.

CHANGLANG, May 23: The Buddhist Community of Bordumsa, Changlang district, along with other Buddhist communities of the world observed the 2552nd Buddha Jayanti on 19th May 2008.
The day, which is known as 'The thrice blessed Day,' was celebrated at the Ajjat Sattu Park of the town, with traditional and religious rituals. It is believed to be the day of the birth, enlightenment and Maha Parinirbanna of Buddha.
'Khamsin Thomtra, i.e. vow to follow the teachings of Buddha and offering of lunch to the Bhikkhu Sangha (Monk Community), were the important rites of the auspicious day.
Offering of Prayer to Buddha, hoisting of Word Buddhist flag, religious discourses, recitation of Buddhist scriptures and illumination of candle were part of the celebration.

CHANGLANG, May 22: The Panchayat election is a test for each of our uniformed personnel, said, Changlang Superintendent of Police Kime Aya said while addressing the review cum coordination meeting of the security forces stationed in the district, here today. We have to give coherent effort for successful conduct of the election. Internal law and order in the polling station will be handled by police and forest officials and area domination will be shouldered by Assam Rifles, CRPF and Army.
Stressing on proper area demarcation for each of the forces, the district police chief said, we have meticulously plan on it to avoid conflict, especially at night patrolling. While asking the Officer In-charge of different Police Station to activate all WT stations of the district, the SP directed for issue of Walkies-Talkies and VHF sets for better communication. He also requested the commanders from other forces to be in touch with OC of Police Station for coordination.
Taking part in the meeting, Col B. Robertson, Commanding Officer, 25 Assam Rifles suggested for joint patrolling in some areas and positioning of personnel from Assam Rifles and CRPF along with Police in the Control rooms and WT centers for better information sharing.
The meeting, which also attended by Taba Toko, SDoP, Miao, Company commanders of different CRPF companied and Officer In-charges of Police Stations decided to have joint patrolling, station personnel from AR and CRPF in the control room and identified areas for domination for different forces. It also took up on vehicle requirement and discussed on ground problems of the forces.

CHANGLANG, May 21: Intimate the contesting candidates about the transit strong room in writing, directed the District Election Officer, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang to the Assistant Returning officers, who will be sending the used ballot boxes on 27th to the Returning Officers. Also, inform the exact time, when the room will be opened the next day, he added. DEO also asked P.C. Deori, Commandant 2nd IR Bn stationed at Diyun to provide security of the strong room from 3pm of 26th May to till the boxes are taken to Miao.
Briefing on security matters, Superintendent of Police, Kime Aya asked the ARO to avail the service of 2nd IR Bn in case of emergency. Police and Forest officials will be involved in Panchayat duties, while CRPF, Assam Rifles and Army will be there for area domination. All the meetings, use of public announcement system and processions, during the pre and post election periods should be done after obtaining due permission from the admin officers so that everything can be regulated and secured, he added.
Diyun ARO, D. Riba, Circle Officer, while apprising the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police on the arrangement informed that there are seven polling stations in the Diyun Anchal block, farthest being, Mudoi, which is 13 km from the circle headquarters. All are well connected by road. Till date no untoward incident has been reported. All meetings are peaceful conducted.
Later, DC and SP along with RO of the constituency, E.T. Tara, ADC, Miao inspected the transit strong room, before leaving for Changlang.

CHANGLANG, May 21: Sector magistrates have very important roles to play during the election period, especially on the polling day, District Election Officer, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner said while interacting with the election related officials at Bordumsa, on 21st May 2008. The Sector magistrates must ensure the proper coordination and movement of the polling teams under their jurisdiction. They should ensure that the teams have safely reached their poling centres before the polling day and also should accompany the last polling team while retrieving. DEO added, on the polling day, these magistrates will be given an extra ballot box for emergency cases. In case, boxes given to the polling team malfunction or break, the team can use the box which is given to the sector magistrate. All the Presiding officers should be made aware of such arrangement. Batt also directed the officials to ensure safety of the polled ballot boxes. No mobile in the polling centres, he pointed.
The DEO, while urging upon the officials to be very judiciously use the allotted fund informed that there has been drastic cut in the fund allotment and we have to manage with whatever is available.
While apprising on the objective of his review visit to the officials, Batt said, I am making myself available to you so that you can clarify your doubts and queries. As government machineries, we have to ensure proper conduct of the election as per rules and guidelines. DEO also made through enquiries about ballot boxes, ballot papers, polling teams, safety of the strong room, vehicles and arrangement for retrieving the materials.
Batt stressed, we have to be very cautious even after the declaration of the election result. Extra precaution should be taken at least one week after the result.
Taking part in the meeting, Changlang Superintendent of Police Kime Aya said, whatever forces we have under our command, we have to use it effectively. Assam Rifles, CRPF and Army will be for area domination, while Police and Forest officials will be for election duties. He added, he had called at coordination meeting of all the forces for proper demarcation of the areas for patrolling, which otherwise would result in fatal consequences. All the processions should be well regulated and party concern should obtain permission from the admin officers.
ARO Bordumsa, S.S. Choudhury, SDO Bordumsa while apprising the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police on the arrangements informed that there are 22 polling centers under Bordumsa Anchal Block and 4982 voters are going to exercise their adult franchise. 19 vehicles, which include 10 heavy ones, will be required. He added, I have inspected all the polling centres and all are permanent structures, such as school buildings. Arrangement are made for retrieving of the materials on the polling day itself, but, looking at the route and time of the day, we have decided to send it to RO's Office at Miao on 27th May, ARO said.
The SDO requested the DC to take up with the BSNL authority to ensure telecom service at least on the polling day for proper monitoring.
Bordumsa Anchal block has 95 GPM seats of which only 24 are going for the poll, where 48 candidates are in the field. Out of the 22 seats of ASM, there will be contest in ten seats only, all in direct fights. For one seats of ZPM, there are three candidates. All the contesting candidates for GPM, ASM and ZPM are either from INC or are Independent candidates.
Bordumsa Returning Officer, E.T. Tara, ADC, Miao, Hengo Basar, EAC, Bordumsa and T. Rumi, CO, Bordumsa, officials from Police and CRPF also attended the meeting. Later the team left for Diyun.

CHANGLANG, May 17: Feeling the pulse and realizing the need of the hour, in continuation of their good will and public welfare works, 25 Assam Rifles set up computer training and learning centres at Shree Rang Frah Vidhya Niketan, Changlang and Holy Rosary School in Changlang district. Computers along with its accessories were provided free of cost by the Unit under the Military Civic Action Programme.
25 Assam Rifles Commandant Colonel Col. B. Robertson, while inaugurating the centres said, it is part of many good will projects for the local populace for their over all benefit as well as to provide an opportunity to the children of both schools to learn computer for their future and betterment. Commandant expressing gratitude towards the response of people towards theses projects, informed that there are many projects in pipeline.
One of the premier and the oldest paramilitary force of the country, the Assam Rifles, which celebrated its 173rd Raising Day recently has rich history and is committed towards the deeds of service and valour in guarding the North East. Their good will gestures and Military Civic Action projects have bonded a forthcoming closeness between the local community and the armed forces.

CHANGLANG, May 17: The Changlang Superintendent of Police, Kimi Aya has appealed to all electorates to exercise their franchise freely and without fear. Any individual need help in security matter, he said, may contact the nearest police station for prompt action.
The district Police chief added, to instill sense of security among the local populace, night patrolling and area domination by the Assam Rifles and the CRPF have been intensified in the district.
Mr. Aya said, entire security arrangement for the district has been worked out. Keeping safety of the used ballot boxes and polling officials in mind, all police personnel of the district is pressed into service. In addition to it, one addition battalion of CRPF has been requested for the election related duties. He pointed we have also sought permission from the government to utilize the CRPF already stationed in the district for Panchayat election.
Regarding deposition of arms, the Superintendent of Police informed that as required during the election period, 365 guns of all types have been deposited in the different Police stations or admin offices of the district.

CHANGLANG, May 16: In view of ensuing Panchayat election, the Changlang District Administration has declared 24th to 26th May 2008 and 1st to 3rd June 2008 as 'Dry Days.' No sale of alcohol items will be allowed in the above following day.

CHANGLANG, May 16: The election campaign in the district in connection with ensuing Panchayat election shall cease 48 hours before the commencement of Poll, i.e. 7.00 am on 24th May 2008, according to official sources.
No person shall convene, hold or attend any public meeting relating to Panchayat election campaign in the district during the aforesaid period, it adds.

CHANGLANG, May 16: Do not forget your social obligation towards the local populace, reminded Changlang Deputy Commissioner, Hage Batt, while interacting with GeoEnpro officials at Kharsang, 83 km from Changlang on 13th May 2008. We need your assistance in health and education sectors. As a developing State, we lack in infrastructures. We need some additional classrooms in our schools and few more beds in our hospitals. Your help in this direction will be welcomed. Few health camps will not do, he pointed.
In strong words, Batt said, to develop, we have to be proactive towards to local people. We have to gain their confidence, he added.
Pointing at the pathetic condition of the road between Namchik check gate and Kharsang- Miao due to regular plying of heavily loaded trucks transporting coal and crude oil from the area, Batt said some mechanism should be develop for its maintenance. Assuring to take up the matter at his level, Deputy Commissioner directed ADC, Miao to convene a meeting of representative from State PWD, GeoEnpro and Coal India ltd to find a solution. It was informed that 40 to 50 trucks of Coal India ltd carrying 30 to 40 tons of coals and 16 to 20 tankers carrying 17 tons of crude oil ply every day on the Namchik-Kharsang/Miao road.
Changlang SP, Kimi Aya, ADC, Miao E.T. Tara, CO Kharsang, G.K. Paul Choudhury, GeoEnpro General Manager (Operation) Naveen Kumar along with other senior officials of GeoEnpro attended the meeting, where security related matters were also taken up.
It may be noted GeoEnpro Petroleum Limited, a registered Indian company and a joint venture between Jubilant Enpro Pvt. Ltd. and Geopetrol Mauritus Ltd, is the operating company for the Kharsang Oil Field, Arunachal Pradesh. GeoEnpro became a Consortium partner & operator of the Kharsang Production Sharing Contract (PSC), the first ever medium sized onshore oilfield awarded by the Indian government for private participation in the year 1995. Subsequent to its takeover, oil production has registered a major increase due to major workover and drilling of wells. A total of 36 wells were drilled in the Kharsang Field by Oil India, out of which 28 are classified as oil wells, 4 as gas wells and 4 as abandoned. Additional 5 wells were drilled by GeoEnpro in 2004- 2005. Producing depths typically lie in the range of 1000 to 1600, with production coming from a multiple series of thin and lenticular reservoir sands, primarily in the Girujan Clay Formation (Miocene).
Through its involvement in the Kharsang PSC, GeoEnpro has more than a decade of operating experience in the development and production of medium sized oilfields.

CHANGLANG, May 15: The Army is inviting its ex-servicemen to join back to the force, informed Mr. Dorjee Khandu, District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer (DRRO), Changlang.
Quoting a defence communiqué, Khandu said registration of ex-servicemen for re-enrollment in the Defence Security Corps (DSC) is being carried out by the Sena Bharti Karyalaya or the Army Recruitment Office, Jorhat. The posts opened for the ex-servicemen are Soldier General Duty and Soldier Clear (General Duty). DRRO adds, the candidates must be below 45 years and the gap between date of discharge or retirement and date of re-enrolment into DSC must be within five years.

CHANGLANG, May 14: Out of the 581 PR seats in the Changlang district, contest will be there in 191 seats. Of the 390 uncontested seats, Indian National Congress (INC) bagged 332 seats, while Independent (IND) bagged 58 seats. BJP, RJD, PPA and AC are yet to open their account.
According to official sources, there are 474 (four hundred and seventy-four) Gram Panchayat Membership seats in the district, of which three seats are declared Urban and seven seats are vacant. Three hundred forty-eight seats have been declared as uncontested of which 292 (two hundred and ninety-two) were from Indian National Congress (INC) and rest 56 (fifty-six) were independent candidates. Election will be held for 116 (one hundred and sixteen) seats.
The district has 101 (One hundred and one) Anchal Samiti Membership seats of which one has been declared Urban. 41 (Forty-one) seats have been declared as uncontested of which 39 (thirty-nine) ASMs where of INC and 2 (two) of the Independent (IND). Contest will be for 59 (fifty-nine) seats on 26th May 2008.
Of the 7 (seven) Zilla Parishad Member seats, Jairampur-Manmao Zilla parishad constituency candidate of INC has been declared uncontested. Rest 6 (six) seats are going for the voting.

CHANGLANG, May 13: Changlang Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt along with SP Kimi Aya reviewed the arrangement for the ensuing Panchayat election at Manmao, Jairampur, Kharsang and Miao today. The District Election Officer had in detail discussion with the administration officers for foolproof arrangement for a free and fair election. Movement plans, vehicles, strong-rooms, counting centers, temporary structures, retrieving plan and casting of vote by election duty officials were taken up in the meetings. The district heads also reviewed the security arrangements at different places during the daylong tour.
Batt directed the administrative officers, especially the Returning Officers and AEROs to minimize the expenditure, have proper coordination and also to have contingency plan in case of bad weather and other unforeseen problems. While asking the ROs to send a responsible senior officer for receiving of the ballot papers from him, the DEO said, the same person must be engaged in distribution at RO's level. He also directed them to have telephone and fax at the counting centre. Apprising on the porterage and other expenses,
DEO took note of the polling centres where it requires foot march and asked the Admin officers to avail services of the gaon burahs for arranging porters.
At Manmao, one of the interior out post of the district, A.J. Lungphi, Circle Officer briefing the DEO, informed that under his jurisdiction, only three locations have to be covered on foot. Six polling stations of Manmao Jairampur and three of Kimiyang constituencies come under the circle. CO added, he have convened a meeting on 14th May with the candidates along with gaon Burahs to brief them on model code of conduct etc.
At Jairampur, ADC M Roy, who is the RO for Jairampur-Manmao and Nampong-Rima Putok Zilla Parishad constituencies informed that twelve locations under his jurisdiction have to be covered by foot, farthest been 33 km. He added, every activity is minutely studied and planed.
ADC, Miao, E.T. Tara, RO for Bordumsa, Miao and Diyun Zilla Parishad constuencies informed that movement plan for Vijoynagar starts on 17th May while others will be on 25th. He added, public consultation meeting is being convened on 19th and before that on 14th May, there will be on the spot checking of all the polling centres. Admin officers and representatives of the security forces and police will accompany him, he pointed.
Later, before returning back to Changlang, the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police inspected the strong-room at Miao.

CHANGLANG, May 12: The District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer (DRRO), Changlang has appealed to the outpost administrative officers, i.e. Circle Officers, Extra Assistant Commissioners and Additional Deputy Commissioners of Changlang district to furnish names of ex-servicemen, belongs to Army, Navy and Air Force only, in their respective jurisdictions so as to enable them to avail financial assistance from Raksha Mantri's Discretionary fund. The names forwarded should have number and name of the regiment along with photocopy of the ex-servicemen card, he stressed.
Quoting Defence ministry communiqué, Mr. Dorjee Khandu, DRRO, Changlang said Directorate General Resettlement is authorized to look after the ex-servicemen only, which as per Government of India notification comprises of people who have served in Army, Navy and Air force. Personal from Para Military Forces which includes Assam Rifles and CRPF etc do not fall under this category. Hence, only names of those ex-servicemen who had served in Army, Navy and Air Force should be forwarded.
Mr. Khandu informed that there has been enhancement in the financial assistance provided to needy ex-servicemen, widows and their wards from Raksha Mantri's Discretionary fund. Grant of Rs. 16,000.00 (Rupees Sixteen Thousand) only will be provided for marriage of daughters of ex-serviceman, widows in penury and widows remarriage. Monthly grant of Rs. 2000.00 (Rupee Two Thousand) is there for old, infirm ex-servicemen. A new grant, amounting to Rs. 500.00 (Rupees Five Hundred) under assistance to ex-servicemen and widows in penury, is there for those above 70 years and orphan children. House repairs grant of Rs. 20,000.00 (Rupees twenty Thousand) will be provided to ex-servicemen and widows in penury or 100% disabled ex-servicemen and also to orphans daughter of ex-servicemen of all categories.
The DRRO, Changlang has called upon the Ex Servicemen also to come forward and avail the benefits provided from Raksha Mantri's Discretionary fund. Till date, only 171 names have been received which includes widows of ex-servicemen.

CHANGLANG, May 10: In continuation of the Military Civic Action under aegis of Headquarters Directorate General of Assam Rifles (HQ DGAR), Changlang based Assam Rifles Battalion provided equipment for Community Hall at Laktong Village, 4 km from Changlang on 13th April last. Commandant 25 Assam Rifles, Col. B. Robertson handed over the equipment to the villagers in presence of the Changlang ZPM and Gaon Burahs, Loktong Village.
Speaking on the occasion, Commandant said that Assam Rifles has undertaken the goodwill project for the local populace and their overall benefit. Assam Rifles has still more goodwill projects in the pipeline, the Commandant added while expressing his gratitude to the response of the people of Laktong village towards project by Assam Rifles unit.
Major I.S. Pathak, 2IC, 25 Assam Rifles informed that the equipment provided by the Unit under the umbrella of Military Civic Action for the community hall includes Shamiyana, Kanat, Plastic Table, Chairs, cooking utensils and Jute Mat for the flooring.
The gesture will definitely help to foster ever growing good relation between local people and security forces. Moreover, the equipments for Community Hall would not only be useful for the local populace during various functions but also help them indirectly to preserve and project their rich cultural heritage.

CHANGLANG, May 08: Changlang District Administration has issued a circular directing the general public not to use olive green cloths within the district till further order. The circular, which was issued to all administrative officers, Gaon Burahs and others, states that some unscrupulous persons are in habit of wearing olive green cloths resembling that of the Army uniform. It adds, the anti-social elements too put on such dresses and thereby causing security threat in the district.
Prohibiting sale of olive green cloths by the shopkeepers in the market, it says, wearing of such cloths by the general public is not permitted due to security reasons as the district is already declared as 'Disturb Area.'
H. Matcha, EAC (Jul), Changlang pointed that disobedient to the order lawfully formulated for the public interest and safety, the offender will be awarded as per law, i.e. simple imprisonment for a term of one month or a fine of Rupees Two hundred or both. He added, the punishment may extend to six months or a fine of Rupees one thousand or with both.

CHANGLANG, May 7: Gear up yourself to conduct free and fair Panchayat election, District Election Officer (PR) Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang, said while addressing a meeting of election related officers of the district, here today. It is better to be well equipped in case of eventuality, he pointed. The DEO review each and every aspect of the whole process along with ROs, AROs and Administrative officers.
On being offered of their services, the Deputy Commissioner requested the Assam Rifles to be there as stand by and said, we will be needing you service at Vijoynagar and in Khimyang. He also requested them to have close coordination with the administration and with the police for better law and order during the election process.
Taking part in the discussion, Changlang SP Kimi Aya informed that for emergency cases, 'Strike Forces' will be stationed at seven locations and accommodation for the requisitioned personnel will be taken care.
Representative from Assam Rifles informed that 'Quick Reaction Force' will be there in all its camps and posts in the district. Patrolling and other routine security duties are carried out as usual, he added.
The meeting, which was convened by the DEO to discussion on the ensuing Panchayat election, had in-detail review of the arrangements and other related aspects. Security arrangement, movement plans, transportation requirements, numbers of polling stations and voters, classification of polling stations, ballot papers and sector magistrates were taken up in the meeting.
Changlang ADC, S.B. Deepak Kumar, who is the Returning Officer for Khimyang and Changlang, Miao ADC E.T. Tara, Returning Officer for Bordumsa and Diyun and Jairampur ADC, M.Roy, Returning Officer for Nampong-Rima Putok and Jairampur- Manmao along with AROs and administrative officers attended the all important meeting. Representative from security forces were also present in it.
In Mammao-Jairampur Zilla Parishad constituency, only on candidate filed nomination. As it result, there will be no polling in twelve polling centres out of the 123 centres.

CHANGLANG, May 7: Returning Officer of Nampong-Rima Putok Anchal Block of Changlang district, M. Roy, ADC, Jairampur informed that no nomination was received against three Gram Panchayat Member seats of the block. Roy, who is also the Returning Officer of Jairampur-Manmao Zilla parishad constituency said, only one, Mrs. Joyo Longri of INC filed nomination for ZPM seat for ZPM in the constituency.
Further giving details, Roy informed that in Nampong-Rima Putok Zilla parishad constituency, two nominations were received, i.e. Khingra Nong Tikhak and Tosham Mossang. For nine Anchal samiti seats, there are twelve candidates and contest will be there in three seats only provided no withdrawal is there by 8th of May. Six single nomination, all from INC candidates were filed. For 35 GPM seats, in 30 places there are single nomination of which 28 were from INC and rest from independent. There will be contest in only two seats.
In Jairampur-Manmao Zilla parishad constituency, for ten seats, there are fifteen candidates and contest will be there for only four seats. In six places there were single nomination and all from INC. In GPM, there will be contest in two seats of the forty-one. Single nomination, all from INC, were filed for thirty-nine seats.
The last date for withdrawal is 8th May.

CHANGLANG, May 6: Recruitment for fifty-five posts of police personnel for the candidates from Changlang district has begun under the Chairmanship of Changlang SP Kimi Aya at the General Ground, here today. More than five hundred candidates from different parts of the district turned up to submit their document for scrutiny.
Mr. H.K. Deori, Dy SP, Changlang, who is one of the members of the selection board along with Taba Tako, SDOP, Miao informed that 33 posts are there in the IR Bn of which 29 are reserved for APST and two for Ex Servicemen. In the Civil Police, he added, out of 17 posts, 15 are for APST and two for Ex Servicemen and in Arunachal Pradesh Battalion, of the 5 posts, 4 are for APST and one for Ex Servicemen.
Dy SP further informed that the physical test will be held on 9th June 2008 and written on 29th June 2008.
Police personnel were placed of duty along with medical team for the rally. Refreshments were also provided to the candidates who were here to deposit their documents on the day. Deori added, we will install a canteen for the convenient of the candidates on the physical test day. Tents and other amenities will be there for them.

CHANGLANG, May 6: A medical evacuation team of 25 Assam Rifles led Assistant Commandant Anil Kumar Jha (Medical Officer) rescued three PWD workers, when a tractor trolley carrying the PWD workers turned turtle into 100 mtrs deep gorge on the way to Rangran village, 15 km from Changlang on 5th May 2008. The three workers were evacuated and rushed to the District Hospital, Changlang, where they were given medical treatment. The condition of one of the worker was stated to be critical but out of danger.
The tractor trolley was taking battery and Pol items for the Road Roller in service in the Rangran Road, according to PWD sources.
Timely evacuation of the Assam Rifles personnel saved three lives.

CHANGLANG, May 6: Two hundred and forty-one nominations were accepted and eleven rejected from 6-Khimyang and 7-Changlang Zilla Parishad constituencies after the scrutiny here today. 8982 voters of the two Zilla Parishad constituencies will exercise their franchise to elect their representatives.
For Khimyang Zilla Parishad constituency, two nominations for the post of Zilla Parishad member (ZPM) were filed and both were accepted. For Anchal Samiti Membership (ASM), thirty seven nominations were accepted, while one nomination was rejected and for Gram Panchayat Membership (GPM), seventy-five nominations were accepted and one rejected.
For 7-Changlang Zilla Parishad constituency, three nominations were filed for ZPM and all were accepted. For ASM, thirty-six were accepted and two rejected and for GPM, eighty eight nominations were accepted, while seven were rejected.
As per scheduled, the last date for withdrawal is 8th May 2008. Polling will be held on 26th May 2008 and if required re-polling will be on 28th. The election results will be declared on 2nd June 2008.

CHANGLANG, May 5: A prohibitory order banning carrying of fire arms by any person within the district during the ensuing Panchayat Raj election have been issued by the District Magistrate.
In an executive order, District Magistrate, Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang ordered all the fire arms holders of Changlang district, except armed forces and security personnel, to deposit all categories of fire arms including local made (Khaja Banduk), licenced or unlicenced to their respective police stations or administrative office, latest by 15th May 2008. In his order, Batt also ordered that the fire arms deposited will be given back only one week after the declaration of the election results.

CHANGLANG, May 4: People's participation right from initial stage to completion of the project is the hallmark of the National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA) schemes, informed A.K. Singh, District Agriculture Officer, Changlang. Generation of massive employment during the project period and regular employment after the project completion is the prime feature. The main objectives of the scheme are to achieve the twin objective of sustainable production of biomass and restoration of the ecological balance.
In fact, Singh added, it promises to bring the benefits of Green revolution to the untouched areas by adopting a framing system, through watershed management principles in order to conserve rainwater and equally precious top soil. Animal husbandry, agro-forestry, horticulture and fisheries are some of the diverse activities which are being taken up in the process. Measures to conserve water and soil are carried out by giving emphasis on vegetation conservation then the mere engineering structure, Singh stressed.
The DAO, while highlighting of the NWDPRA said, the scheme is a major thrust programme launched by Government of India, with a funding ratio of 80:20 by GOI and the State Government. During the 10th Five Year Plan, one project was implemented at Rangkatu- Kengkhu in the district. The programme started in 2003-04 and saturated during 2006-07. To conserve the area, maximum portion was brought under Orange (Jampoi variety from Mizoram) plantation and irrigation facilities were provided. Singh pointed, implementation of the project has helped in socio-economc development of the village society.
District Agriculture Officer, Changlang, informed that during the same Plan, three more NWDPRA projects were taken up at Phangtip, Kamlao and Yanman in Changlang district. The projects are in initial stage and are under direct supervision of Mrs. L.K. Taiju and Mr. S.K. Ram, Agriculture Development Officers, Changlang.

CHANGLANG, May 2: With the last date of filing nomination today, 308 contestants have filed their nomination for the ensuing Panchayat Election in 6-Khimiyang and 7-Changlang Anchal Samiti Blocks. Although large numbers of people turned up for it, the nomination process was done peacefully and with transparency.
Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, who is the Returning officer for 6-Khimiyang and 7-Changlang Anchal Samiti Block, 6-Khimiyang Anchal Samiti Block, five persons, submitted their nominations for Zilla Parishad member, fifty-three for thirteen Anchal Samiti member seats and ninety-one filed for fifty-five Gram Panchayat member seats. In 7-Changlang Anchal Samiti Block, eleven filed nomination for the Zilla Parishad membership, fifty-one for seventeen Anchal Samiti member seats and ninety-seven for sixty-five Gram Panchayat membership.
As scheduled, the scrutiny will be done on 5th May 2008 and the last date for withdrawal will be 8th May 2008. Polling will be held on 26th May 2008 and if required re-polling will be on 28th. The election results will be declared on 2nd June 2008.

CHANGLANG, May 1: Without you, there cannot be any development, Chairman, Arunachal Pradesh Mineral Development & Trading Corporation ltd, Mr. Kamlung Mossang, MLA said while gracing the May Day celebration at Miao on 1st May 2008. Terming the workers as main thrust in Nation building, Mr. Mossang called upon the workers to be dedicated and sincere in the job.
Dwelling in length on the International Labour Day, APMDTC Chairman said, it is the red letter day for all workers and is observed to acknowledge the service of the working class. It is the day dedicated for the welfare of the working class, he pointed.
In his address, President, All Arunachal Pradesh workers' Union, Mr. Jally Sonam, who attended the meeting as the Guest of Honour said, it is our day when we can share our problems. It is a day for interaction amongst the work force, he added.
A colourful culture programme was presented on the occasion. Large numbers of workers from different parts of the district participated in meeting.
Earlier in the morning, a procession was taken out by the workers, which later congregated at the meeting place. It may be noted, the Workers' Union of Changlang district had decided to observe the May Day at Miao for the convenient of workers willing to participate in the worker's red letter day.

CHANGLANG, April 30: The Assam Rifles is for the welfare of the local population, Col. B. Robertson, Commandant 25 Assam Rifles said during the Moh Mol festival at Changlang. True to his words, his Unit have constructed a piggery farm at Khuchep village, 27 km from Changlang and handed it over to the villagers (First week of April).
Giving details on the project, Major I.S. Pathak, 2IC, 25 Assam Rifles informed that under aegis of Headquarters 25 Sector, the Assam rifles Unit stationed at Changlang undertook the programme as part of Military Civic Action Project. He added, the endeavour was to make the villages self sufficient in their needs and as a source of livelihood to the needy.
Six compartments piggery was constructed at the cost of Rs. 2.00 (Rupees two lakhs). Major Pathak pointed, it was constructed by engaging the villagers, which, in a way to created part time employment for them. He added, six piglets along with six month rations were provided to the villagers. Taking no chance, the Unit insurance the piglets and also gave medicines required for six months.
This gesture by the Unit of 'Friends of the Hill People' is well appreciated by the local populace who appealed for many more such projects be implemented for the uplifment of village communities. They also requested the Army authorities for a community hall in the village.
The Assam Rifles have been providing medical assistance, aid in basic education, assist in reconstruction and agriculture and handles communications in remote areas, in addition to its regular duties, i.e. law and order.

CHANGLANG, APRIL 30: To introduce practices for sustained increases in agricultural productivity and to reduce soil degradation through better management of natural resources, the Central Government is implementing watershed projects in the different parts of the State.
Besides driving results towards environmental benefits, the watershed projects have helped in enhancing the local and regional economic viability in ways that are environmentally sound and consistent. Along with environmental protection programs, it is a coordinating framework for environmental management that focuses public and private sector efforts to address the highest priority problems within defined geographic areas.
Exclusively for northeast States, the Union Government had launched the Watershed Development Programme in Shifting Cultivation Area (WDPSCA). Under the programme, a project was implemented at Renuk village in Manmao Circle of Changlang district during the 10th Five year Plan and which saturated in the year 2006-07. The total treatment area under the project is 376 hectors of which orange (Jampoi variety) plantation have been carried out in 139 hectors.
Mr. Tajom Taloh, Commissioner Agriculture etc. who had recently visited it (visited on 25th April 2008), had expressed words of appreciation to the project managers for the vigorous and health growth of the plantation and for other allied activities of the project.
Giving background of the watershed projects in the district, Mr. A.K. Singh, District Agriculture Officer, Changlang pointed, it is basically to discourage shifting cultivation, which is under productive and requires huge labour. In this programme, villagers are encouraged to transform the areas of shifting cultivation to permanent cultivation areas. To do so, he said, first a committee is formed to study the feasibility of watershed project in the area where it is proposed. Once it is done, coordination meetings are conducted to apprised the concerned villagers of the benefits and other allied activities. The DAO added, a single project area comes to 500 hectors but 70% of it is treated. No permanent trees are disturbed during the implementation.
Singh pointed, in the upper reaches of the project area, aforestation programme is done, where commercially valued trees like 'Agar' and bamboo plantations are carried out. In the middles reaches, horticulture projects are implemented and in the lower reaches, terraces and bunds are constructed for cultivation of paddy. This way, erosion is checked, which is very common in the region. This, he added enhances and sustain the productivity and also increase farmers' incomes.

CHANGLANG, April 29: Chairman, Arunachal Pradesh Mineral Development & Trading Corporation ltd, Mr. Kamlung Mossang, MLA, is going to grace the May Day celebration at Miao on 1st May 2008. President, All Arunachal Pradesh workers' Union, Mr. Jally Sonam will be the Guest of Honour.
The Workers' Union of Changlang district had earlier in its general meeting at Changlang on 6th April 2008, decided to observe the May Day at Miao for the convenient of workers willing to participate in the worker's red letter day.

CHANGLANG, April 29: To improve the business transaction in the Sales Emporium in the district, the department of Textiles, Handloom and handicrafts has allotted an amount of Rs. 50,000.00 (Rupees Fifty Thousand) as Revolving Fund, informed Mr. J.P. Bora, Assistant Director, Textiles, Handloom and Handicrafts, Changlang. With the amount, we hope that the revenue collection will increase and production quality will improve.
Mr. Bora said, due to fund constrain, there was shortage of raw materials, which had drastic effect in the revenue. Although, we collected an amount of Rs. 1,19,880.00 (Rupees One Lakh, nineteen thousand, eight hundred and eighty) from the sales of emporium products but it was below the previous year which stood at Rs. 1,67,000.00 (Rupees One lakh Sixty Seven Thousand).
The Assistant Director informed that maximum earning is from the sales of wooden statues, cost of which ranges from Rs. 1,200.00 to 3,000.00. Traditional handlooms products, such as lungis, mekela, Tangsa coat and bags are also very popular, he pointed. The materials are either collected from local entrepreneurs or are produced in the craft centers. Trainees under going training in different trades make those items. The raw materials are provided by the department. Last year, twenty-seven trainees were trained in different trades, such as weaving, knitting, tailoring, beads and necklace, cane and bamboos and carpet making, informed Mr. Bora.

CHANGLANG, April 28: With the announcement of Panchayat election in the State, exercise has begun with appointment of Presiding Officers, Polling Officers and Polling attendants in the district. Forty eight persons, including heads of department, engineers, teachers etc. have been appointed as Presiding officers for 6-Khimiyang and 7-Changlang Anchal Samiti Block. One hundred and fifty-one individuals have been appointed as Polling Officers of which around ninety are teachers. Another sixty-five are appointed as Polling Attendants.
Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, who is the Returning officer for 6-Khimiyang and 7-Changlang Anchal Samiti Block, has requested the heads of offices and controlling officers of the those earmarked officers and officials not to make any transfer or posting and also not to engage them out station duties.
Mr. Kumar has also asked the appointed officials to attend the training for the Presiding Officers, Polling Officers and Polling attendants on 9th and 19th May 2008 at DIET auditorium, Changlang at 10.00 am positively without fail.

CHANGLANG, April 28: Master Gaurav Pathak of Class VIII and Master Sumit Kapoor of Class IX of Government Higher Secondary School, Bomdumsa topped in their respective Classes in the district. In the recent announced results of the internal board examination, Master Pathak secured 89%, while Miss Swati Mishra of the same Class and school came second in the district with 88.6 %. Master Sumit Kapoor who topped in the district in Class IX result secured 84%. It significant academic record for the school as three of the toppers is from the school.
Giving details of the School performance in the recent announced results of the internal board examination, Mr. Nyage Potom, Principal, Government Higher Secondary School, Bomdumsa informed that over all pass percentage of the school is 87.2 %. In Class VIII, it is 87.3 %, while in Class IX, the pass percentage is 74.35%.In Class XI, all the students got through in both Arts and Science streams. Mr. Potom pointed it is sheer devotion and commitment of both the students and teachers to achieve such inspiring results, inspite of many short comings. Although we have shortage of senior Hindi teacher, still we could do it, he added.

CHANGLANG, April 25: Tangsa Tribe has initiated a unique tradition by celebrating the Moh Mol festival together along with all its sub tribes, said Mr. Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang, who graced the Moh Mol festival celebration as chief guest here today. Inspite of having large numbers of sub-tribes, which has different dates for the celebration, the tribe has exhibited unity and oneness by observing the auspicious occasion on a single platform and on a particular day. Extending his festival greeting, Mr. Batt urged upon the younger generation to shoulder the responsibility to carry forward this tradition.

Moh-Mol Festival 2008, Changlang

Moh-Mol Festival 2008, Changlang

While taking advantage of the huge gathering on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner warned against drug menace in the district and said, it is degenerating the society. He stressed on the will power of the individuals to counter the addiction, especially amongst the youths. Encouraging the unemployed to avail the recruitment opportunities offered by the Army and Police, he highlighted on recent advertisement by the State Police department. Mr. Batt also urged upon the people for cooperation in the peaceful conduction of ensuing Panchayat election.
In his address, the guest of honour, Col. B. Robertson, Commandant 25 Assam Rifles, congratulated the people for the rich cultural heritage they have inherit and expressed his hope for a vibrant future.
Pointing that the armed force is for peace and security of the local population, Commandant 25 Assam Rifles called upon the people for cooperation for in the implementation of Military-Civil projects and Border Area programme in the district.
Chief Patrol of the festival celebration committee, MLA Phosum Khimhun, Chairman DoTC, in his address said, the festival has brought all of us together and we have stand united in all our endeavour in the coming year. Mr. Khimhun offered pray to Almighty 'Rang Fra' for Thy blessings for welfare of every individual. Earlier, Mr. H. Khimhun, DAEO, Changlang, President, Moh Mol 2008, extended the welcome address.
The daylong programme started with ritual, 'Rom Rom,' where priest and his assistants offered prayers to Goddess of Crops 'Tungaja Chamja' for blessing of bumper harvest, Goddess of Prosperity for wealth and 'NONG' for longevity of the Nong Culture by sacrificing a fowl, which was followed by gun shots to indicate the beginning of the celebration.
Cultural troupes in the bright and colourful attires from different villages, representing sub tribes of Tangsa tribe i.e. Pangsa, Longchang and Muklom presented indigenous dances, while drummers gave scintillating display. Amidst music of rhythmic drum beats and melodious notes of gongs and cymbals, the waves dancers presented an eye catching cultural display. Tiny tots, led by Miss Sengi, Miss Piya, Miss Nini, Miss Manjuli and Miss Mingki presented numbers of Tangsa modern dances.
Earlier, the chief guest and the guest of honour were presented with Traditional Tangsa jacket on the occasion. The festival committee also felicitated Mr. Nonghom Shungkho, Mr. Salman S Mungrey, Miss Nyesali Wapai and Miss Kim Sanchang on the occasion for their contributions towards celebration of the Moh Mol 2008. They were honoured with Mr and Miss Titles along with cash awards as encouragement.
Local Tangsa brew along with indigenous cuisines were served to the invitees and guests. The festival committee also organized a community feast for all. Large number of people number of people from all walks of life, including Mr. Wangnia Ponte, MLA, former minister Tengam Ngemu turned up to witness and participate in the festival. The Tangsa community ensured that its members turned up in their traditional attires, i.e. traditional lungi, jacket, bag, necklace and headgear on the day. The ladies were is their green stripped gales add colours to the celebration.

CHANGLANG, April 24: Mr. Tajom Taloh, Commissioner Home, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, who is on an election related visit to the district, inspected the office of the Superintendent of Police, Changlang, Police Station, Changlang, and the UTP cell here today. Accompanied by Mr. H. Deori, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Hq), Changlang, Mr. Taloh also visited the under construction District Jail on the day.

Commenting on the District Jail, the Home Commissioner assured to look into the matter as to why till now it is not completed.
It may be note that the construction of the District Jail begun in the year 2004. Till the date even the main boundary walls are not completed.

CHANGLANG, April 24: With dedication and sincerity of the teachers, the Government Schools are also coming up at par with private schools. The Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang is one such school. In the recently declared results of the Internal Board Examination for Class VIII, IX and XI, the school recorded 89.6 % pass percentage.
Mr. P. Tiwari, Principal, Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang informed that in Class VIII, the percentage was 82.4 %. In Class IX, out of 285 students, 223 got through. In Class XI (Hum) out of 104 students only two was left behind and in Class XI (Sc) all the students were passed.
The Principal added, Master Mukut Bora topped in Class VIII with 79.4 %, while Master Dipankar Pathak and Miss Moromi Boruah coming second and third. Master Subhasish Ghosh came first in Class IX with 85.4%. Master Pallab Borah and Master Nitish Kumar Singh came second and third. In Class XI (Hum), Master Akat Longri came first with 59.2%, while Miss Tage Yameng and Mengpe Haisa came second and third. In Class XI (Sc), Master Ngo Prasad Upadhyay topped with 68.8%. Master Ekar Riram and Miss Poonam came second and third.

CHANGLANG, April 23: Ensure error free electoral roll, said Mr. Tajom Taloh, Commissioner Home, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary etc. Government of Arunachal Pradesh, while addressing a meeting of the officers related to elections, here today. Mr. Talo, who is the Electoral Roll Observer for Tirap and Changlang districts, urged upon the officers to check the percentage of increase or decrease in the numbers of voters with reference to the mother Roll 2006. He also directed them to go into the details of Form VI which refers to claims for inclusion. The Observer pointed that the voters in age group of 25 years and above, the AROs should refer their previous records, i.e. whether deletion is done at their previous booth records or not.
The meeting, which was attended by Mr. Hage Batt, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, EROs, H.Matcha, EAC and Mr. M.C. Roy, EAC, AEROs, Mr. K.Tikhak, CO and Mr. W. Mossang, CO along with Booth level officers, had a detail discussion on problems and other election related matters.

CHANGLANG, April 23: The district administration of Changlang has declared local holiday for Changlang district on account of Moh-Mol festival of Tangsa community of Changlang district. However, it is not applicable for Banks and other financial institution.
Moh-Mol is basically an agricultural related festival of Tangsas, which signifies end of an agricultural activity or beginning of crop season. Since life and activity of tribal people revolve around agriculture, they adhere to utmost important to this festival. Prayers are offered to Goddess of Crops 'Tungaja Chamja' for blessing of bumper harvest, Goddess of Prosperity for wealth and 'NONG' for longevity of the Nong Culture.
It is the occasion, when the community members turn up in their best traditional costumes and ornaments. Food, drinks, songs, dances and music are part and parcel of the auspicious occasion.
On the eve or during the festival, some communities of Tangsa tribe, bid ritual farewell to departed soul of the family, if any member had expired during the year. They believe deceased soul dwells in the family who needs to be bid farewell by offering foods and drinks for his/her peaceful rest in the ancestor realm.

CHANGLANG, April 23: The results of teachers' recruitment under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan for Changlang district have been declared (It was declared on 21st April 2008).
Mr. T. Morang, Deputy Director of School Education, Changlang informed that the block wise result for thirty posts each of Assistant Teacher and Junior Teacher is declared along with waiting lists.
Justifying the waiting list, he said, as it is a contractual job, many individuals leave it within very short period after getting absorbed in other departments, resulting in vacancies. To fill up it in such situation we have to have waiting lists. It may be noted that its validity is only for six months, he pointed.
The written test for teachers' recruitment under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan for Changlang district was conducted at four centres, i.e. Changlang, Jairampur, Miao and Bordumsa on 30th March 2007 and the viva voce was held on 4th and 5th April 2008.

CHANGLANG, April 22: The Government is responsible for welfare of the Senior Citizens. To assure the older persons that their concerns are State's concern and they will not live unprotected, ignored and marginalized, the Government is implementing the National Policy on Older Persons. The policy aims to strengthen their legitimate place in the society and to help older people to live the last phase of their life with purpose, dignity and peace. The National Policy inter alia visualizes support for financial security, health care and nutrition, shelter, emphasis upon education, training and information needs, provision of appropriate concessions, rebates and discounts etc. to Senior Citizens and special attention to protect and strengthen their legal rights such as to safeguard their life and property. The National Policy on Older Persons confers the status of senior citizen to a person who has attained the age of 60 years.
For the senior citizens, living below poverty line, the Government is implementing the National Old age pension scheme. The objective of NOAPS is to extend financial assistance to old destitutes having little or no regular means of subsistence. In the overall assessment, the scheme has achieved its objective in providing social assistance to the destitute persons above the age of 65 years. In Changlang district 481 senior citizens are benefiting from the scheme.
Giving details on it, Mrs. Shilakanni Namshum, CDPO, Changlang informed that there are four hundred beneficiaries covered by Central government and eighty-one more by the State government. The beneficiaries cover by receives Rs. 2,400.00 (Rupees Two thousand and four hundred) and one covered under state government receives Rs. 1,800.00 (Rupees One thousand and eight hundred). She added fresh list of beneficiaries are forwarded to the government for consideration.
National Old Age Pension Scheme is found to be extremely beneficial to the old destitute. In general, it has succeeded in giving them a sense of security in life and has definitely improved their quality of life.
The scheme would serve its purpose even better if some improvements were made in certain areas like building awareness, reducing delays, selection of beneficiaries, etc. People are not aware about the selection procedure of the scheme. Awareness programmes with the help of Panchayat Raj institutions will be highly beneficial in this direction. There is also a need for better planning in disbursement of the benefit and co-operation of concerned official. The prescribed minimum age for eligibility to avail NOAP should be strictly followed. There is also need for strict scrutiny in selection of beneficiaries.

CHANGLANG, April 21: Weights, measures, measuring and weighting instruments used in transaction purposes should be verified and stamped by Legal Metrology department in the district, informed Mr. C.S. Singpho, Inspector, Legal Metrology, Changlang. Once in a year, every trading unit using those items should get it done by paying a nominal fee for every piece of instrument.
Cautioning those traders overlooking the prescribed norms, Mr. Singpho warned that compounding fine will be levied on the offenders. In package commodities, he further pointed, it should have mandatory declarations, like, name of the commodity, net contained, maximum retail price, date of manufacture, expiry date and name and address of manufacturer or packers.
There are 234 trading units under his jurisdiction in the district, informed Legal Metrology Inspector. 2364 nos. of weights and measures were verified. Four cases of unverified measuring instruments and another four cases of package commodities without mandatory declaration were detected. He added an amount of Rs. 52,797 was collected as verification fee and compounding fines etc. in the year 2007-08.

CHANGLANG, April 19: To instill a sense of security, the government provides social assistance benefits to the economically and socially backward as well as the weaker sections of the society in case of the death of its primary breadwinner. The bereaved family will get lump sum amount of Rs. 10,000 under the National Family Benefit Scheme of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), sponsored by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India.
Mrs. Shilakanni Namshum, CDPO, Changlang informed that seventeen families from the district have benefited. Own the government has fixed it at lump sum amount of Rs. 10,000.00 (Rupees Ten Thousand) only, she pointed.
The bereaved family members may contact the CDPO Office or to the Anganwadi centres to avail the benefit with death and Scheduled Tribe certificates. The name is then forwarded to had office for availing he financial assistance.
The scheme would serve its purpose even better if some improvements are made to facilitate in obtaining death certificates easily and better co-operation of concerned officials.
The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), sponsored by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India, purpose to provide social assistance to the rural poor in India. It aims at improving the quality of life of the rural poor, ensuring equality and effective peoples' participation in the process. The programme extends 100% central assistance to the States and Union Territories. The NSAP introduces a national policy for social security assistance to the poor families in the case of old age, death of primary breadwinner and maternity. It provides an opportunity for linking the social assistance package to schemes for poverty alleviation and provision of basic needs.It has three components, i.e. National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS), National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) and National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS).

CHANGLANG, April 19: There is a marginal decrease in the revenue earning from the poultry and dairy farms in the district, from Rs. 1.88 lakhs to 1.72 lakhs. The fund constrain been the major factor along with bird flu cases recorded in other parts of the region. A substantial amount was incurred on maintenance and purchase of feeds for the poultry birds and dairy animals.
The poultry production was badly hit in the year 2007-08 due to the bird flu restriction, although no case was recorded in the district. In spite of fund constrains, the department somehow maintained the farm well and two batches of broiler birds were reared in the year. An amount of Rs. 13,652.00 were collected as revenue, of which an amount of Rs. 8,000.00 is kept as revolving fund for maintenance of the poultry farm.
From the diary farm, the revenue collected was Rs. 69,299.00 in the year 2007-08 of which Rs. 40,000.00 is kept as revolving fund to maintain 29 cattle, which includes milk cows, bulls and heifers etc. The revenue generated is from milk sale and auction of uneconomical animals of the farm.
Offering his optimistic view, Dr. D. Techai, Veterinary Officer, Changlang, who is the in-charge of the dairy farm, informed that with proper maintenance of feed-production ratio and proper boundary fencing around the farm, we can really increase the production and revenue by many folds. At present, the milk cows are not getting their complete diet, they are underfed by 3:1 ratio. He added, we have fodder farm but as there is no proper fencing, private owned cattle enter the farm and feed on it. We are forced to engage workers to collect fodder which is neither economical nor enough for the cattle.

CHANGLANG, April 18: The V.V. Giri National Labour Institute, NOIDA is going to conduct a training programme on strengthening awareness on labour issues for women representatives of Non-Governmental Organizations from North East States from 19th to 23rd May 2008 at VVGNLI, NOIDA. The training programme is meant for NGOs engaged in issues related to labour.
Calling upon the NGOs of the district to avail the training opportunity, the Labour Officer, Changlang, Mr. Rokom Tayeng informed that the institution will be providing free boarding and lodging during the training period to the participants. In addition to it, the National Labour Institute will also reimburse to and fro journey fare, he added.
Appealing to the interested persons to submit their applications on or before 25th April 2008 at his office, the Labour Officer pointed that the participants must be in the age group of 22 to 45 years with working knowledge of English or Hindi. He or she should be actively engaged in grassroots level activities and have a minimum experience of two years.
Highlighting on the programme, Tayeng said, the five day training will dwell on length on the emerging issues of labour in present economy, issues related to women labour and awareness on labour laws. The course profile includes exploitation of labour, equal wages for equal work, maternity benefits and social security.

CHANGLANG, April 17: Height of 152 cm is enough for candidates from Changlang and Tirap district for the recruitment in the Arunachal Pradesh Police, informed Mr. Kime Aya, Superintendent of Police, Changlang. Appealing the local populace to join the State Police Force, Mr. Aya informed that 371 posts are there for the interested candidates of the State, out of which 240 are for APST male, 27 for ex servicemen and 30 for ladies.
The District Police chief, while exhorting the unemployed and able bodies to avail the employment opportunity added 95 posts in Arunachal Pradesh Battalion (APP Bn) and 758 in Indian Reserved Battalion (IRBn) also there for interested youths and Ex- servicemen.
The SP pointed that last day for submission of application is 6th May 2008. Physical tests and measurements will be held and 7th May, while the written test will be on 31st May 2008.

CHANGLANG, April 16: To open new avenues of employment for girls from the North East, the Indian Army is offering four years nursing course to the students of northeast states in the Institute of Nursing (AIN), Guwahati.
In an official communiqué to district administration, Colonel Tapesh Kanwar of 2 Mountain Division, Dinjan, Assam informed that AIN, Guwahati has been started to meet the aspiration of the people of the North Eat. It was keeping in mind the increasing scope for employment of qualified nurses all over the world that the institute was started. Apart from the profession nursing being a noble one, it will also open new avenues of employment for the girls from the North East, he added.
Col Kanwar pointed, admission to the institute through written test is conducted every year, however, the response from the girls of the defence personnel and civilians from the North East States for last two batches was quite dismal. Blaming it on lack of publicity, he called for awareness about the people of the institution.
Army Institute of Nursing, Guwahati has been established under the aegis of AWES, as a center of excellence for Nursing Sciences within the precincts of 151 Base Hospital located at Basistha, Guwahati , as an interim measure, with all facilities of modern classrooms with LCD projectors for computer aided teaching, library, and fully equipped laboratories and an anatomy museum. The permanent campus of the institute is being constructed in a serene environment on the VIP road in the heart of Guwahati city with state of the art facilities of an ultramodern college with excellent laboratories, library, playgrounds, accommodation for teaching and administrative staff and a modern hostel for students. The institute offers a course leading to the award of a degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing by Guwahati University. The duration of the course is three and a half years of active study and six months of training of rotatory internship.
The children of army personnel who are very competent miss out on opportunities to join lucrative jobs, as they at most times, fail to get desired level of attention from their parents owing to their postings in remote and field areas and frequent transfers. To overcome this situation the Army Welfare Education Society (AWES) has focused its attention on opening professional institutions for the wards of service personnel and ex-servicemen. Thus a number of professional colleges have come up across the length and breadth of the country. The AWES is running 117 Army Schools and 12 professional colleges at present to provide quality education at an affordable cost. In a short span of 10 years professional colleges run by AWES have earned good name in their respective disciplines. The placement record through campus interviews is continuously improving.
The objectives of the institute are to provide a comprehensive system of education to impart knowledge of nursing sciences with adequate practice in the field to prepare students to be highly competent and confident nurses. It also aims to maintain the highest standards of education in nursing and para medical sciences through an innovative and practical approach to provide service to the society. The objectives behind the establishment of the institution are also to develop teaching and supervisory skills in nursing, health care and administration in hospitals.
Combined Written Admission Test (C-WAT) is held in the month of April and seats available are forty.

CHANGLANG, April 16: The district has recorded an 88.67 % in the Internal Board examination passed percentage result in the academic session of 2007-08. The passed percentage in Class VIII is 88%, while that is Class IX is 86%. The percentage for Class XI stands at 92%. There has been improvement in pass percentage in the last few years.
While giving the details, Mr. P.P. Kandpal, ADEO, Changlang informed that out of 982 students in Class VIII, 864 got through and 526 out of 612 wards passed in Class IX. In Class XI, record 442 out of 481 were promoted to the next Class. The ADEO, who is the academic in-charge in DDSE Office, Changlang pointed that this year also there is improvement in passed percentage. He added, in urban areas, the girl students did better then the boys but in rural area they lacked behind, but overall, the result is good even in rural areas.
In the district, where the literacy rate stands at 51.98 %, the improvement in the passed percentage is a welcomed trend.

CHANGLANG, April 15: Five hundred and ten aged individuals of Changlang district are benefiting from Annapurna Scheme. Under the Annapurna Scheme,10 (ten) kgs of foodgrains per month is to be provided free of cost to the each beneficiary.
The Annapurna Scheme envisages supply of 10 Kg of food grains per head per month free of cost indigent people who are above 65 years of age and are destitute in the sense of having little or no regular means of subsistence from their own source of income or through financial support from family members or any other sources. The beneficiary of this scheme must not be availing benefits of National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS) or State Pension Scheme.
The Annapurna Beneficiaries are issued with entitlement card.

CHANGLANG, April 14: Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), a scheme for providing food grains to the poorest of the poor at highly subsidized rates is an important milestone in the public distribution system (PDS) of the country. Launched in 2000, the Yojana aims to provide food and nutritional security to families below poverty line (BPL). Public Distribution System, a major instrument of the Government's policy ensures availability of foodgrains to the public at affordable prices as well as for enhancing food security for the poor. It also forms an important constituent of the strategy for poverty eradication and is meant to serve as a safety net for the poor who are classified as below poverty line.
Under this scheme, identified families are provided with distinctive ration cards enabling them to buy foodgrains at highly subsidized rates, i.e. Rs. 3 per kg of rice through fair price shops. Each family is provided with 35 kg per month at the rate.
AAY is being successfully implemented in the district by the District Food and Civil Supplies department, Changlang. Implementing the commitment of the State Government to ensure food security for its citizens and to create a Hunger Free State, the department has issued 1420 nos. of cards to the identified families in the district. Besides improving the public distribution system with its focus on poor families in the rural and urban areas, the department is putting every effort in making them available the benefits of public distribution more substantial in terms of both quantity and nutrition.

CHANGLANG, April 13: Once again Changlang has to face nature's fury. A cyclonic wind along with thunder storm left a trail of destruction in the township at 11.50 pm in the intervening night of 12th and 13th April 2008. Houses were destroyed, trees were uprooted, power line snapped and people waited and prayed for it to end. CGI sheets were seen on the tree tops make it very dangerous for people to come out. Large numbers of garages were damaged. The hoardings were twisted and glass windowpanes broken. Massive lost of properties could be seen every where.

The hardest wrath fell on the District Rural Development Agency. A tree uprooted and fell on the bedroom portion of the house of DRDA sub division account officer, chopping the house into two. Fortunately, the officer was on leave. Three rooms of DRDA office was also damaged along with four quarters of its staff and officials. Roofs of the houses were blown off.
The stores of the education department were also damaged. Mr. C. Mossang, Store in-charge cum SSA coordinator informed that stores were NCERT books of Class IX, X, XI and XII are kept was damaged as the roof were blown off. As he was supervising the shifting of the books in the safer place, he added of books worth in lakhs is there. Even the SSA store was damaged.
At the circuit house, the porch collapsed. On the other hand the walls of the Changlang club also collapsed and walls of the district library were damaged.
Trees were uprooted and branches snapped and fell on the roof tops. The tree inside DC's residential compound uprooted and blocked the entrance. The gate of the DFO residence was also damaged as a tree fell on it and blocking the path. Fencings in many places were smashed up.
At Old Changlang, the newly erected Air-cell communication tower collapsed. Fortunately, it did not fall on any house. The villages informed that although the tower was erected, it was not connected with the base foundation. The nuts fixing to the tower to the base never there. They added, even the engineer concerned with the erection had stopped the work. We are lucky that it fell the other way otherwise there would have been lost life and properties.
There was no damaged reported in the water supply. The power lines which was snapped were somewhat restored by evening.
A team led by Town magistrate Mr. W. Mossang, circle Officer, Mr. Dorjee Khandu, DRRO and other officials visited different parts of the township. Mr. Mossang said, although the damages are enormous but fortunately no life was lost.
Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Changlang informed that a high level committee will be form at the earliest to assess the damages.
It may be recalled, recently a tree uprooted and fell on a CRPF camp at Nampong killing one personnel on the spot and injuring two others.

CHANGLANG, April 12: Meanwhile, the celebration of the Pongtu festival continued today in the different parts of the Tutsa inhabited villages. At Changlang, the sound of the drums echoed throughout the day. The people visited each others houses. They danced to the beat of the drums and enjoyed Tutsa cuisines and brew. 'Pongtu,' literary stands as 'Pong' means wind and 'Tu' means retreating. The festival, which is observed just before the harvesting of millets in the month of spring season, i.e. 'Latom' in local dialect, is to welcome the New Year. It is also observed to offer prayer to Almighty, 'Rangkhothak,' who is believed to be divine Goddess both benevolent and malevolent, for bumper harvest, prosperity and protection against natural calamities, like famine and flood. During the festival, prayers are also offered to 'Thonghong Wokong,' the forefather and ancestors of the Tutsa community.
According to the tribe elders, the Tutsas were originated from a place called Rongkhon-Sanchik and came down after crossing the Patkai hill through a way called Hokmen-Hoksan settled in the Barap valley, which lays in the border areas of Tirap and Changlang district. These people temporary settled at Kuthung and then searched for a safe and secure place. After carefully examining with a ritualistic scanning they selected a place called Tut. As the population grew, they spread out and many villages came into existence. Since, they were from Tut, they called themselves Tutsa. The literary meaning of Tutsa: Tut means name of the place [village] SA-means children. The Tutsa population spread in entire Barap valley.
It is said, once the Tutsa were a warriors but not a traditional headhunter. Guerrilla war was practiced due to frequently inter-village land dispute taxes and domination etc. from the neighbouring villages.
The Tutsas had good relations with Ahoms. The Ahoms were once settled at Jongrom near Motok Pahar and Jekhot kan near Kengkho village. However in due course of time, Ahoms moved to plains of Assam due to occurrence of salt well ownership dispute. The Tutsas also devoted their power in expansion of their political influence in the region. The economy then was barter system and the trade was concentrated to local made gun, dao, spade, traditional dress, cane bucket, mat and gong. The Tutsas exchanged their locally made products with grains and millets of the plain people.
The traditional village council is still prevalent in the Tutsa community. They have a chieftaincy system of village council where, the chief (Lungwang) and his council of members governed the political lives of the people. The chief proclaims the final decision on any affairs after arriving at the final opinion of all the members of the council and general public gathering.
The Tutsa population is there in Changlang and Tirap districts. Some of their villages are under Laju, Khonsa, Deomali and Namsang circles of Tirap district and Yatdam, Khimiyang and Namtok circles of Changlang district.

CHANGLANG, April 11: By celebrating festivals, we carry forward the tribe's vibrant and rich cultural heritage and traditions, Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Changlang said while attending the Pongtu festival of Tutsa tribe as chief guest at Changlang today. It also adds to the cultural diversity of the country, he added.

Pongtu Festival 2008 of Tutsa Tribe

While extending festival greetings to all and appealed to the younger generation learn and take interest in the customs and traditions of their tribe. The chief guest, who unfurled the festival flag to mark the commencement of the celebration, also released a Tutsa modern songs audio cassette, titled 'Mina Hasong,' sung by L.K. Tutsa.
Mr. Kimi Aya, SP, who was one of the Guests of Honour, in his address said festival is a unifying factor in the society, which bring all together. While extending Pongtu greetings, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the festival organizers and said, we have learned lots about the Tutsa tribe, while attending the festival.
Col. B. Robertson, Commandant 25 Assam Rifles, who also attended as Guest of Honour extended greetings on behalf of the 25 Assam Rifles to the Tutsa community and said, by inviting us in your festival, we are believe that you have accepted us as one of your family members. We are here for you and our doors are always opened, he added.
Earlier, local MLA, Mr. Wangnia Pongte, chief patron of the festival in his address thanked each and every participant of Pongtu 2008 for making the celebration a grand success. A Tutsa himself, Mr. Pongte said, the Tutsa tribe is one of the major tribe of the State inhabiting in the Barap Valley, the adjoining areas of Tirap and Changlang districts. The Tutsas, are peace loving people with distinct culture and traditions. Appealing to the government officials of the district for concerted effort in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the tribe, the MLA pointed that equal importance and respect to every tribe will help in the over all development of the society.
Mr. Samhang Janngoi, President, Festival Committee and his secretary Mr. Nongphok Kungkho also spoke on the occasion. Dwelling in length on the mythology behind the celebration, Mr. Kungkho said, Pongtu is an agricultural festival, observed on the eve of rainy season, i.e. before the harvesting of millets. It is also an offering to the Almighty, 'Rangkhothak' in the New Year for His blessings in the coming year.
The day-long celebration begun with beating of drums, which echoed throughout the township. Large numbers of cultural troupes from different Tutsa villages of the district turned up in their best for the auspicious occasion. The male dancers with drums, swords, spears and headgear decorated with animal teeth and hornbill feathers, while the ladies in the bright and embroidered costumes, with silvery and beads performed ritualistic dances such as 'Changding, Pongtu, Onghe and Ronghon. While the cultural programme was in the peak, the priests along with their assistants chanted prayers for the wellbeing of the mankind. In the pedestal called the 'Cham,' the priest lighted the first flame for the year by rubbing two cane sticks. A fowl was sacrificed during the flame ceremony and the dancers danced around the Cham with the beating of the drums. Later the guests including former minister Mr. Tengam Ngemu, district heads of department, Mr. Gunjanong Sinpho, President DCC (I), Changlang participated in the dance.
The festival committee honoured the guests with traditional Tutsa sword and a jacket. They hosted a lunch for the guests, invitees and for the community with Tutsa delicacies and brew.

CHANGLANG, April 9: The district administration of Changlang has local holiday for Changlang district on account of Pongtu festival of Tutsa community of Changlang. However, it is not applicable for Banks and other financial institution.
Tutsas are habitué of the southern parts of Changlang district and eastern parts of Tirap. As of 2001 their population stood at 25,000. The harvest festival of Pongtu is the principal festival of the Tutsa.

CHANGLANG, April 9: The teachers of the district sat on a peaceful Dharna in front of the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Changlang today protesting against the Government decision on the post of Director, school Education. The Dharna which started at 9.00 am ended around 1.00 pm.
Mr. H. Tungkhang, Secretary, ATA, Changlang informed that 189 members including DAEO, Principals, ADEOs from DDSE Office and different circles of the district sat in the Dharna.

CHANGLANG, April 9: Efforts are on to provide basic necessities e.g. essential communities, to the people, informed the District Food & Civil Supplies Officer, Changlang Mr. Buru Lailing.
Fixing the day for selling of SK Oil on the first and third Sundays of every month, Mr. Lailing has requested the card holders to avail the required commodity on the fixed days. The DFCSO, Changlang added that there are three SK Oil whole sellers in the district and fourteen SK Oil retailers in the district. The total number of card holders who can avail the commodity stands at 23,160.

CHANGLANG, April 8: The District Result Consideration Board meeting for Changlang district was held at DDSE Office, Changlang here today. Principals, headmasters and examination in-charges from five evaluation centers of the district, i.e. Government Higher Secondary School of Miao, Bordumsa, Innao, Nampong and Changlang attended the meeting.
Mr. P.P. Khandepal, ADEO informed that the annual meeting of the board discussed on the criteria for finalization of Classes VII, IX and XI results of the Internal Board examination. The results will be declared very soon, he added.

CHANGLANG, April 5: With rest of Galo tribe in the State, the community observed the Mopin festival with traditional flavor and gaiety here today. As integral part of the festival, the people turned up in white suits and took part in the 'Ponu'. The ladies in 'Jeese Korey,' white gale with black embroidery presented traditional dances and songs. Iti, white paste made of rice powder was smeared on each others faces.
Mr. G. Karbak, lecturer, Rangfrah College, Changlang, who was the President of the celebration committee here dwelled on the Mythology behind the celebration. Thanking all for the cooperation, Mr. Ibom Bogo, secretary, Festival Committee, Changlang urged upon the people to preserve the age old cultural heritage of the tribe.
A community feast was organized on the occasion for the guests, invitees and community members, where traditional cuisines and brew were served.
Labour Officer, Mr. Rokom Tayeng, Secretary, Mopin Solung Festival Committee, Changlang while profusely expressing his gratitude to the organizing committee for the successful celebration donated a cash amount to the Ane Ponu party.
Exceptional part of the celebration here at Changlang was the honouring of the brother-in-laws from the other community and tribes. The Galo ladies and their husband were escorted to podium and were gift with traditional gift, 'Surgen,' a bamboo tube of 'Poka,' local brew and an 'ekkam' packed steamed rice.

CHANGLANG, April 4: The local population, especially salaried people are suffering due to shortage of cash remittance in the Changlang Branch of State Bank of India. Many people are seen standing in queue for hours together for their payment. Inspite of cash in their account, many are turned back as the Bank is not in position to provide them cash. The problem raised due to non cooperation of the Reserve Bank of India officials who did not care to provide cash although they fully know the cash position on daily basis. The shortage has hit hard on the salaried people as many planning to go out of station for medical treatment, vacation and children education are not getting the required cash.
Mr. Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang expressing his concerned on the matter directed the concerned authority to do the needful at the earliest.
Mr. Atul Das, Branch Manager, SBI, Changlang informed that as practiced the SBI branch had placed indent for cash remittance in the month of January 2008 to Reserve Bank of India and they had assured to drop it by 20th March 2008 by air force plane. Citing bad weather the RBI officials kept on postponing it several times. They even postponed for the same reason when Pawan Hans aircraft easily landed here, he pointed. Then the RBI assured to bring it by road. We somehow managed vehicles, labourers and Police escort but again they postponed in the last moment.
Other senior Bank officials of the Bank informed that they are some how managing it inspite of cash shortage. We are giving priorities to salaried people, medical and education cases but we are not in position to pay out big amount and government payments.
Changlang being in a remote place, the RBI should have responded to the need, efficiently and promptly. If this happen regularly disregarding the sentiment of the local populace and the people serving in the area, they may feel neglected.

CHANGLANG, April 4: The five-day free eye check up and cataract operations has begun at Community Health Centre, Bordumsa in Changlang district on 2nd April 2008. 350 patients had their eyes checked on the first day out of which 30 were admitted for cataract operation.
Dr. Taba Khanna, Eye Specialist, District Hospital, Changlang informed that till now 415 individuals have been examined and of which 38 patients are admitted for required operations. The operation is under process, he added.
The District Blindness Control Society, Changlang is conducting the camp. The team includes which includes Dr. Taba Khanna, Eye Specialist, Dr. Mising Ngemu, Medical Officer, Changlang, Mr. D. Maity, Ophthalmic assistant of the District Hospital, Changlang, and Mr. S. Maity, another ophthalmic assistant from the District Hospital, Khonsa. Post operation follow up, which is mandatory for such camps, will be done in the month of May.

CHANGLANG, April 2: The Changlang district administration is initiating action against encroachers of department allotted plot in the Changlang Township. It has directed the concerned departments to furnish report on encroachment of the department allotted land within Changlang Township before 15th of this month.
Additional Deputy Commissioner cum Estate Officer, Mr. S.B. Deepak Kumar, IAS, pointed out that unauthorized persons are constructing structures in the plots allotted to the government departments, but due to non furnishing of reports on such illegal activities by the concerned departments, the district administration could not take necessary steps to prevent encroachment.

CHANGLANG, April 2: To enhance broadcast coverage of All India Radio in the interior areas, All India Radio & Doordarshan, Guwahati is going to install three 100 Watt unmanned FM Transmitter in Changlang District. The work is under process for its installation at Miao, Nampong and Vijoynagar. 30 meters Mast will be erected for the purpose in these locations. It will be a boon to the people living in interior and inaccessible places where radios are still the lone means of getting news and other information.
It may be note, that under NE special package scheme of Government of India, 103 numbers of KU-Band Transmission (Free to Air) Direct to Home (DTH) along with colour TV sets are being distributed free of cost in the district to extend Doordarshan and TV services. It has facilitated reception of satellite TV signals by users of the DTH system in various remote and uncovered parts of the district. The systems are installed in community centres such as schools, public health centres, Anganwadi centres and clubs etc. to facilitate effective community viewing and mass awareness.

CHANGLANG, April 1: The Gauhati High Court in a landmark judgement regarding illegal occupation of reserved forest land in Diyun Reserve Forest, Changlang district by Chakma refugees has stated that if they are in occupation of the Reserve Forest land, they can be evicted from the land.
The Hon'ble Court observed thatr the Chakma Settlers in their petitions have themselves mentioned about clearing of forest land etc. for their settlement and habitation, which is a clear admission on their part that they are unauthorized occupants of the forest land.
Disposing the cases WP (C) No. 8587/2004, WP (C) No. 7328/204, WP (C) No. 3895/2004 and WP (C) No. 8924/2004 in favour of State of Arunachal Pradesh, the PCCF, Govt. of AP, the DFO, Nampong Forest Division and the Deputy Commissioner, Changlang, Hon'ble Court, however stated that an opportunity is given to the petitioners to have their say in the matter in response to the impugned notices. If the petioners respond to it within a month from today, 7/3/2008, the authority shall consider the same and pass appropriate order strictly in accordance with law regarding evicting of the unauthorized occupation of the Reserved Forest land. However if no objection is filed with the stipulated period, the authorities will be at liberty to proceed with the matter in accordance with law. Till such time, status quo as on today shall be maintained, it stated.

CHANGLANG, March 24: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, General J.J. Singh, who was on a day-long tour to the district, visited Pangsau Pass in Changlang district today. Accompanied by the Speaker Setong Sena, local MLA, Deputy Commissioner Hage Batt, SP Kime Aya, Zilla Parishad Chairman Izmir Tikhak, he went by road from Jairampur to Pangsau Pass to see for himself the road condition, which is the part of famous Stilwell road. At the border point, BP 173, Mr. Singh interacted with the some Myanmarese people and border guards and expressed his best wishes to the people of Myanmar. Recalling his official visit to the country as the Chief of Indian Army in 2006, the Governor called for more cooperation between the two countries in the future.
Earlier at Nampong, 111 km from Changlang, interacting with local population, Mr. Singh assured world class road from Jairampur to Pangsau Pass. Appreciating the importance of the road, which NH 153, he urged upon the concerned officers to expedite the work in fast track and said, I will support you, it's of National importance. It may be noted that Arunachal Pradesh government has given go ahead direction for preparation of DPRs for permanent border Trade Centre and Land Customs station for Indo Myanmar and Indo Bhutan in first phase involving reputed consultant agency.
The Governor, who was accompanied by the first lady, Mrs. Anupama Singh, also interacted with the Goan Buras. Not to be left behind, Mrs. Singh also had busy time with women folk and children.
Mr. Izmir Tikhak, Chairman, Zilla Parishad, Changlang District, on behalf of Peoples of 51, Nampong Assembly Constituency submitted a two-point memorandum on the occasion, which includes, a tourist lodge at Nampong and helipad and a cafeteria at Pangsau Pass.
Soldier to heart, Mr. Singh took time out of his busy schedule and interacted with Assam Rifles and CRPF personnel. Enquiring on their duties and work, he recalled his time in the area. The Governor, expressing his concern on security abreast himself of the situation through Mr. Kime Aya, SP and stressed them to be vigilant on law and order.
Before leave for Itanagar, the Governor expressed his heartfelt appreciation for all the arrangement to Mr. Sena, Speaker, Mr. Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner and other officials and said that the visit was memorable one with a touch of history. Appreciating all round development in the area, he urged the Speaker, who is the local MLA to keep up the momentum.
Earlier, the governor, who was also accompanied by Mr. P.S. Lokhande, Secretary to Governor and Mr. Tokong Pertin, Director, Trade and Commerce was received by Speaker Mr. Setong Sena, local MLA, Mr. Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Kime Aya, SP and Mr. M.Roy, ADC at the 29th Assam Rifles Helipad, Jairampur.

A traditional public reception with Gongs was accorded to the visiting dignitaries at Nampong. Large numbers of people from all walks of life, including school children turned meet the Governor and the first lady. As custom of the local people, traditional dresses and doa were presented to them.

GOVERNOR URGES FOR ECONOMIC UPLIFTMENT OF THE PEOPLE

CHANGLANG, March 24: We need encourage our people to go for commercial medicinal plant and orchid farming, General J.J. Singh, the Governor said while interacting with government officials during his maiden visit to Changlang district after becoming the head of the State. Work for the welfare of the local populace and concentrate on the economic upliftment of the people, Singh stressed.
After power, tourism is another sector where the State has huge potential, which will help people to earn fast with very low investment, he pointed. While visiting the World War II Cemetery, near Jairampur, he showed his eagerness to have a meeting with tourism department officials, so as to develop the sector. Local crafts, huts, rafting etc. provides huge scopes. We should go for low cost tourism, he added.

CHANGLANG, March 14: With the slogan, 'Jago Grahak Jago,' the district legal metrology department is going to observe the World Consumer Rights Day tomorrow.
Mr. C.S. Singpho, Inspector, Legal Metrology, Changlang District informed that on the Consumer's Rights Day, the department is going to take initiatives in creating awareness on the rights of the consumers, the common men. Posterings and erecting banners on the subject have already begun.
Mr. Singpho added, as part of the duties of the department, surprise checkings are regularly carried out in different parts of the district, i.e. Nampong, Jairampur, Manmao, Changlang and other places. Booklets on the rights of the consumers' are also distributed along with consumer's awareness meetings. He pointed, the booklets deals with various provisions of laws of Standards of weights and measures, package commodities rules and laws of consumer's protection Act 1986. It also deals with subjects like who, where and how to file complain.
The Legal Metrology Inspection pointed that there are only two consumer complain cases, which are under process in the District Consumer Redressal Forum, Changlang.

CHANGLANG, March 13: One girl child from the Changlang district will be selected for admission in Class I at Ramakrishna Sarada Mission Girls' School, Khonsa.
While inviting application for it, according to official communiqué from office of the Deputy Commission, Changlang, the last date for submitting it will be on or before 20th March 2008. It added, all necessary certificates, i.e. tribe, age, medical, fitness and income certificate of the parents or guardians along with two recent passport size photographs of the candidates should be duly furnished.
It pointed that the age of the child should be six years.

CHANGLANG, Mar 13: The written test for Junior and Assistant Teachers in Changlang district has been postponed to 23rd March 2008. Earlier it was to be held on the 19th March 2008.
According district School Education communiqué, the written test for Junior Teachers will be in the morning shift while test for assistant Teachers will be in the evening shift.
It added, Viva voce will be on 28th March 2008 and results will be declared on 29th March 2008.

Changlang 11 March: International women day was celebrated at Changlang in a befitting manner on 8th March. Mr. Junpo Jugli ZPM Miao grace the occasion as Chief Guest. SP Changlang, Mr. K.Aya was invited as Resource Person and had spoken on the topic trafficking and eve teasing. Other speakers on the occasion were Dr.Mekha Khimhun, Mrs. Renu Mungrey and CDPO Changlang/ Khimiyong. To mark the event a mass gathering and procession of women from various section at General ground was organized.

CHANGLANG, Feb 25: The medical department of Changlang district is conducting the second intensive Pulse polio Immunization programme 2008 from 24th February 2008. On the first day 14358 children of the age group 0 to 5 years were vaccinated in the booth and another 213 were vaccinated in transit point.
Dr. N. Lowang, DRCHO, Changlang informed that total of 908 vials of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) were used on the first day. Approximately seven hundred medical officials and staffs from other departments were engaged in the immunization programme. She added, there180 posts all over the district in addition to 8 transit posts. More then fifty vehicles were used.

CHANGLANG, Feb 25: Every festival of the State is our festival, Mr. Phosum Khimhun, MLA, Chairman DoTC said while attending the Nyokum Yullo celebration at Changlang today. All festival is related with agriculture and prosperity of mankind but it is also for merry making, community work, unity and time for exchange of ones views, he added.
Extending the festival greetings on behalf of the people of Changlang district and the state Government to all and to the Nyishi community in particular, the DoTC chairman, said, the festival is celebrated not only in the districts or circles but also in the metros by the Nyishi community which has the largest population in the State. Here, Khimhun said, there are few people of the community but you have observed it in a grand manner. This is sign of development, he pointed.
Thanking profusely to the celebration committee for inviting him to the festival and also for preponing the celebration for his convenient, Khimhun, assured full cooperation in the future.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kime Aya, SP, Changlang, who attended the celebration as the Guest of Honour exhorted the community to maintain the tradition, there by preserving the age old rich cultural heritage and identity. With modernization, he said, we must welcome the changes but keep the good values for the future generations. The festival helps to be united and we should celebrate it with our heart, he added.
Extending his festival greetings, Mr. Aya congratulated the community for organizing the festival inspite of very few members and termed it as a good example for others. Offering his prayers to invoke the blessing of Nyokum Goddess, the Guest of Honour urged upon the community to work harder with sincerity and dedication in their approach in every field, be in agricultural field or in the job.
Earlier, Mr. Charu Sakap, Chairman, Nyokum Yullo celebration committee, Changlang welcomed the guests and invitees. Along with their better halves, the Chairman and his Secretary, Dangche Baka felicitated the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour with Nyishi headgears, jackets and a Daos.
Reading out the Nyokum Mythology, Mr. Bengia Tab said the term, 'Nyokum Yullo derived from three different works, 'Nyok' meaning earth, 'Um' meaning collectiveness and 'Yullo' means festivity. Therefore, the Nyokum Yullo may be interpreted as inviting all Gods and Goddess with Nyokum Goddess as the principal deity to a particular place at a particular time and are worshipped by the people collectively irrespective of caste, creed or class for better productivity, prosperity and happiness for entire mankind. Basically, the festival has a close link with agriculture. The Nyokum Goddess is invoked for Her blessings for bumper harvest and to ward off evils.
The daylong programme started with unfurling of the festival flag by the chief guest, which was followed by 'Nyokum' prayer song. Government officials, public leaders, local communities and personnel from security forces attended it. A colourful cultural programme, including 'Riikam Pada' dance was presented on the occasion. The celebration committee also organized a community feast with indigenous Nyishi cuisines and Opo, the local drink of the community. As token of love, the chief guest donated an amount of Rs. 5000 (Rupees Five Thousand) only towards the festival committee.

CHANGLANG, Feb 21: The District Health Department, Changlang conducted two three-day Laparoscopic sterilization camps at Bordumasa and Diyun in Changlang district from 23rd to 28th January 2008. Medical team from CHC, Ruksin, East Siang district led by Dr. Dilip Dutta, Surgeon and Dr. N. Angu, Anesthetist along with teams from Changlang, Bordumsa and Diyun were involved in the population stabilization programme. District Medical Officer, Dr. Pramathesh De and Dr. N. Lowang, District Reproduction and Child Health Officer, oversaw the operations during the camp. 554 beneficiaries underwent Laparoscopic sterilization during the camps.
Mr. C.C. Singpho, minister Health and Family Welfare, while encouraging and motivating the public visited both the camps. He also inaugurated the operation theatre of CHC, Bordumsa.
Giving details of the sterilization programme, Dr. N. Lowang, District Reproduction and Child Health Officer, Changlang informed that two to three months prior to the camp, the message was disseminated to the community through medical officers. Accredited social health activists (ASHA) extended full cooperation in motivating the public. The motivation follows listings, then screening by medical officers and then finalization of the list for sterilization. She added, along with free operation and medication, each beneficiary is given financial aid of Rupee Six hundred.

CHANGLANG, February 21: A daylong workshop on malaria was conducted at District Hospital, Changlang by the District Vector Borne Disease Control Society (DVBDCS), Changlang here today. District Medical Officer, Dr. Pramathesh De, Zonal Medical Officer, Dr. K. Ngemu, medical officers and para-medics including DDT spray in-charges from different CHCs, PHCs and sub centers of the district attended it.
While welcoming the participants, District Medical Officer, Dr. Pramathesh De urged upon the medical officials to fight against the disease through vector control and early detection and prompt treatment. Stating that no malaria death has been reported in the district, the DMO insisted on proper reporting and said, reports should be complied village-wise. He also gave a through deliberation on the monthly reporting performa under National Vector Borne Disease Control programme.
The District Medical Officer called upon the medical officers to complete the selection of accredited social health activists (ASHA) at the earliest for proper implementation of health programme at village level. He pointed that only the ASHAs are eligible for financial benefit for impregnation of mosquito bednets under the programme as they are trained or will be trained and entrusted for the job.
Going through epidemiological report from 2003 to 2006, Dr. De pointed that the Annual Parasite Index (API) of the district has decreased from 45.77 in 2003 to 23.64 in 2006. Among the thirty health sub centers in the district, API has increased in six centers in 2006-07 and action needs to be taken immediately. Stating that as per the programme, DDT should be sprayed in the areas with API above 2, DMO stressed that two rounds of spray are compulsory in every house in every village.
Zonal Medical Officer, Dr. K. Ngemu, spoke on the new directives on treatment of malaria and also threw light on the review meeting conducted by Additional Secretary of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India at Itanagar recently.
Speaking on signs, symptoms and clinical management, Dr. P.S. Dutta, Medical superintendent, District Hospital, Changlang said, early diagnosis of malaria not only mitigates the sufferings of individuals but also reduces transmission of the parasite in the community. Calling for rapid diagnostic test, Mr. Dutta informed that signs of drug resistance were found in three districts of the State, i.e. Lohit, Changlang and Tirap. He also spoke on drug schedule for treatment of malaria under National Vector Borne Disease Control programme and on guidelines on the use of Sulpha Pyrimethamine - Artesunate combination therapy (SP- ACT) in areas placed under second line treatment.
The daylong programme dwelled in length on Annual Parasite Index (API), spray of DDT and techniques of spray of Indoor Residue Spray (IRS). The participants also discussed in details on the problems faced by medical officers during the last year DDT spray and also took up matters related to management of clinical cases.

CHANGLANG, Feb 21: The first meeting on the block health action plan for Khimiyang Block in Changlang district was held at Khimiyang, 35 km from Changlang on 15th February 2008. Chaired Mr. K. Tikhak, Circle Officer, Khimiyang, the meeting was attended by Dr. N. Lowang, District Reproduction and Child Health Officer cum Chief Executive Officer of district health society, Changlang, Mr. John Jugli, ZPM and Mr. Kamsam Ngemu, Anchal Chairman along with other officials of health department.
Briefing on the action plan, Dr. Lowang highlighted on the planning and proper submitting of proposals with the help of health index and indicators, including infrastructure, manpower, equipments, drugs and other materials. Stressing on involvement of members of Panchayati Raj institution in the planning, she said as we involving the grassroots policy makers, we will have realistic proposals.
The Block Health Action Plan is part of National Rural Health Mission programme.

CHANGLANG, Feb 20: Our State is now evolving through developmental activities in various fronts under the able guidance of our Hon'ble chief minister Dorjee Khandu and his cabinet colleagues. Our government officers and officials are also extending their relentless efforts and dedicated services, setting exemplary contributions in the development of the State, Mr. Wangnia Ponte, MLA said while addressing the people on the occasion of 22nd Statehood Day at Changlang today. The state is emerging as National powerhouse of the country in coming years. The state government is initiating numbers of power projects through out the State in order to utilize the natural resources and to meet the energy requirement of the State in particular and the Nation as a whole. The local MLA, who was the chief guest of the celebration appealed to the people to rededicate themselves to make Arunachal Pradesh a strong and developed State in all respect and to fight against both internal and external forces which are trying to destabilize the development process.
Recalling progression of the State from erstwhile NEFA, Pongte said, the then NEFA was declared as Union Territory in 1972 under the name 'Arunachal Pradesh.' The name, 'Arunachal Pradesh' meaning 'The land of rising sun' was suggested by B. Das Shastri and was formally announced by the then Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi at Ziro, the present district headquarters of Lower Subansiri. He pointed, later on, on continuous demand raised by the leaders and general public and for better administration and development at par with other States, Government of India under the dynamic leadership of Late Rajiv Gandhi, the then Prime minister of India confirmed Statehood to Arunachal Pradesh on 20th February 1987. With its different tribes and their different traditions and customs, our state is a paradise for tourists, he added.
Mr. Pongte announced that DTH sets along with TV are going to be distributed to villages free of costs under the GoI programme shortly.
Earlier, the chief guest unfurled the National tri colour and took salute of the Guard of Honour commanded by Mr. C. Wangpan, ASI, which was followed by the nation anthem led by the trainees of District Institute of Education and Training, Changlang.
An entertaining band display was presented on the occasion by the Band of 25 Assam Rifles under its band leader Hav. Hari Singh Rautela. The students of Town middle school, Changlang also presented a mass PT display in which more than 400 students took part.
To added festivity to the auspicious occasion, games and sports competitions were organized by the district administration.
The daylong programme was attended by Mr. P. Khimhun, Chairman, DoTC, Mr. B.J. Duia, SDO, Mr. Kime Aya, SP, all heads of department, officials, students and public of the township. Under the watchful eyes of the district administration and district police the celebration went off peaceful as no untoward incident reported from any corner.

CHANGLANG, Feb 19: For development and prosperity, there have be peace and unity amongst the population, Mr. Phosum Khimhun, MLA, Chairman DoTC said while attending the Rungri festival, at Bubang village, 8 km from Changlang today. Extending his festival greetings, Mr. Khimhun urged upon the people for cooperation so that people oriented schemes and programmes of the government could be implemented in letter and spirit. Offering his prayer to Almighty, he expressed his faith that the festival will evoke blessing and bring prosperity and development in every family.
Mr. Khimhun was accompanied by Mr. H. Matcha, EAC (Jud), Mr. K. Tikhak, CO, Kimiyang and other senior officers of the district. The Chairman and his entourage paid visit to each house of the village as custom.
Giving a brief on the festival, Dr. D. Techai, VO (AH), said, since time immemorial Rungri (Hahrung) has been observed by Pangsa, a sub tribe of Tangsa for the well being of not only human beings but also for all other living creatures. As per ancestral belief every village has a power of God or 'Chikkhulungrang,' who controls or look after the inhabitants. Any drastic deviation or an abrupt change which is unnatural in the village is clear indication of unhealthiness, which needs Rungri, which cleans or sanctified it. In other words, Dr. Techai added, Rungri is a festival (Kauh) celebrated for health, wealth and peace of mind. It is believed, in this particular day there should be no shortage of any kind food in the house. Once started, it is observed for three consecutive years in a row in the village, he added.
Earlier, on the day, prayers were offer at the village Alter by the village elders, witnessed by the guests, invitees and villagers. In the evening, led by elders, containers of rice, water etc. are filled to its full capacity. A folk song, 'Sahwi,' was sung during the process.

CHANGLANG, Feb 19: The Arunachal Pradesh Director General of Police, Mr. Ajay Chadha, IPS, toured Changlang district from 16th to 18th February 2008 to take on the spot stock of the law and order situation here. During the three day hectic tour, Chadha interacted with the security forces, senior government officials and prominent public leaders of Changlang and Miao.

The Director General of Police also attended Darbar parade of all rank and file of the district Police at Changlang, Kharsang and Miao. He gave a patient hearing to the general problems of the personnel and also to some personal grievances.
While interacting with the DGP, the public representatives categorically mentioned that the law and order situation in

DGP Ajay Chadha, SP Kime Aya and
Inspector S.B. Gohain

Changlang is different from that of Tirap district. They pointed that main problems of the district is drug abuse, opium menace and insurgency.
In order to deal with law and order situation, the DGP stated that more police force will be provided soon and advised optimum use of available resources. Mr. Kime Aya, SP, Changlang who accompanied the State Police Chief throughout the tour in district displayed Antidrug Campaign video footage at Miao.

CHANGLANG, February 18: The Changlang district administration is going to observe the Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day 2008 in a befitting manner. Local MLA Wangnia Pongte will be the chief guest on the occasion.
The daylong celebration will start with Prabat Pherry, followed by main celebration at General Ground, i.e. flag hoisting, Guard of Honour and speech by the Chief Guest. Band display by Assam Rifles Band and games and sports events will be the other highlights of the day.

CHANGLANG, Feb 16: The 24th Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi at Miao, in Changlang district concluded on 15th February 2008. Large numbers of delegates from different part of the State, country and world turned up for the annual event. Ritualistic ceremony and dances, Cultural programmes, community feasts, literary activities and interactions sessions were the highlight of the festival. The final day was for discussions and other intellectual sessions, where important topics like preservation of customs, traditions and assets, social and economic development of the community were dwelled on.
The Singpho festival, which was inaugurated by Mr. Chowna Mein, minister RWD & RD on 14th February 2008 was attended by Mr. C.C. Singpho, minister Civil supplies, health and family welfare, Mr. Kamlung Mossang, Chairman, APMDC, Mr. Sindunong Singpho, President, Singpho Development Society of India amongst other. The Changlang district administration has declared the 14th February 2008 as Local Holiday on the account of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi.
The 25th Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, the Silver jubilee celebration will be held at Bordumsa, in Changlang district, which has hosted it for seven times earlier. Miao hosted the festival for the fifth time this year. Other places where it was held earlier are N-hpum, Payong, N-naw, N-them, Bisa, Margerita, Lekhapani, Ketetong and Innao. It was observed for eighteen times in Arunachal Pradesh and six times in Assam.

CHANGLANG, Feb 12: All the workers of the government departments and private organizations of the district have been asked to register themselves under Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996 to avail financial benefits provided under the provision. The new welfare scheme provides financial assistance for medical, marriage, accidental death and educational loans, housing loan etc.
Mr. Rokom Tayeng, Labour Officer, Changlang informed that issue of forms and other registration process in the district will start from 16th February 2008 in the office of District Labour and Employment Officer, DC Office, Changlang.
Labour Officer added, source for the funding includes grant-in-aid from Government of India, contribution of 1% of the total project cost for each work undertaken by government offices, both Central and State and private undertakings as cess etc.

CHANGLANG, Feb 12: New Welfare schemes have been launched for the welfare of ex-servicemen and widows. Financial assistances are enhanced. All the ex-servicemen and widows of the district are asked to avail grants.
According to Defence Ministry communiqué, there has been enhancement in the financial assistance provided to needy ex-servicemen, widows and their wards from Raksha Mantri's Discretionary fund.
Grant of Rs. 16,000.00 (Rupees Sixteen Thousand) only will be provided for marriage of daughters of ex-serviceman, widows in penury and widows remarriage.
Monthly grant of Rs. 2000.00 (Rupee Two Thousand) is there for old, infirm ex-servicemen.
A new grant, amounting to Rs. 500.00 (Rupees Five Hundred) under assistance to ex-servicemen and widows in penury, is there for those above 70 years and orphan children.
House repairs grant of Rs. 20,000.00 (Rupees twenty Thousand) will be provided to ex-servicemen and widows in penury or 100% disabled ex-servicemen and also to orphans daughter of ex-servicemen of all categories.

CHANGLANG, Feb 12: The Changlang district administration has declared the 14th February 2008 as Local Holiday on the account of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, the traditional festival of the Singpho Tribe of the district. The Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is one of the most important and popular festivals of the Singphos, which is observed on the 14th February every year in the memory of their ancestor 'Shapawng Yawng.' It is celebrated not only in the State of Arunachal Pradesh, but also Assam and in other countries like China, Myanmar and Thailand.
The festival starts with erecting Shadung, the prayer flags which is regarded as the symbol of the Festival. During erecting up of the Shadung, Gidhing Gumdin Manau, the dance of unity, is performed. At the end of the rituals, Padeng Manau; the war winning dance, Shut Manau; the celebration dance, Kumran Manau; the farewell dance are performed.
Highlight of the festival is the Ninggun Shingnoi, offer of food, drinks and household items to elders as mark of respect and also to strengthen the bond of relationship.
It may be mentioned here that the 24th edition of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is going to be observed at Miao in Changlang district from 13th to 15th February 2008. Mr. Chowna Mein, minister RWD & RD will be the chief guest and inaugurate the festival on 14th. Guests from different part of the district, State and the country along with invitees from foreign countries are likely to participate in it. The festival will be a carnival of tribal foods, where the Singpho are specialized and also traditional dance and song.

CHANGLANG, Feb 9: The Weeklong Eye Camp at Diyun in Changlang district concluded today where 677 cases were examined and record numbers of operations, i.e. 185 were performed. Surgeons, Dr. K.Darang, General Hospital, Naharlagun, Dr. A. Rehman, Eye Specialist, District Hospital, Khonsa and Dr. Taba Khanna, Eye Specialist, District Hospital, Changlang along with Mr. Tekhe Lali, Ophthalmic assistant and teams from Itanagar, Khonsa, Changlang and Diyun performed the surgical marathon.
Giving details of the camp, the Camp in-charge, Dr. Taba Khanna, informed that 145 patients were operated for cataract with intraocular lens implantation and 39 for other cases, like oculoplastic cases (cosmetic repairs) and other minor operations. Maximum numbers of patients were from Diyun and Innao area of the district.
Dr. Taba, who personally supervised every operation pointed that it is a record in the history of eye camps in Arunachal Pradesh where such a large numbers patients were operated upon in a single camp. The secretary, District Blindness Control Society, Changlang further added it was possible due to the cooperation and involvement of the administration and local leaders. He expressed his gratitude to Dr. P. De, District Medical Officer, Changlang, Mr. Riba, Circle Officer, Diyun, medical officers and staff of Diyun health center and Panchayat leaders of the area for the massive mobilization, team work and support. Dr. Taba, who is again on the way another camp at Roing, informed that patients were very satisfied but we need more camps to address the eye problems in the area, he stressed.
It may be recalled; Health Minister Mr. C.C. Singpho inaugurated the eye camp on 4th February 2009, which was conducted by the District Blindness Control Society, Changlang.

CHANGLANG, Feb 5: 24th edition of Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, the traditional festival of the Singpho Tribe is going to be observed at Miao in Changlang district from 13th to 15th February 2008. Mr. Chowna Mein, minister RWD & RD will be the chief guest and inaugurate the festival on 14th. Guests from different parts of the district, State and the country along with invitees from foreign countries are likely to participate in it.
Mr. Gumjanong Singpho, General Secretary, Festival Organising committee informed that the Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is most important folk dance festival of the Singphos, which is observed on the 14th February every year by the Singphos of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and also of China, Myanmar and Thailand. He added, according to our mythology, we are the descendents of Shapawng Yawng who was the sixth brothers first born on this earth and called himself as Singpho. Tingli Yawang, son of Shapwng Yawng, in order to get blessings of his father and the creator of ‘Mathum Matha,’ the world, conducted the first Manau poi as offering of prayer to Bhikan Gundan Poi, the Almighty. Later, the festival came to be known as Shapawang Yawng Manau Poi in the memory of their ancestor Shapawng Yawng. People turn up in their best and with enthusiasm add colour flavour to the festive occasion.
Mr. Singpho, further informed that the festival starts with erecting Shadung, the prayer flags which is regarded as the symbol of the Festival. During erecting up of the Shadung, Gidhing Gumdin Manau, the dance of unity, is performed for unity and prosperity. At the end of the dance, Padeng Manau the war winning dance, Shut Manau the celebration dance, Kumran Manau, the farewell dance etc are performed.
Highlight of the festival is the Ninggun Shingnoi, offer of food, drinks and household items to elders as mark of respect and also to strengthen the bond of relationship. The festival will be a carnival of tribal foods, where the Singpho are specialized and also traditional dance and song.

CHANGLANG, Feb 5: The District office of Labour and employment, Changlang has issued a circular to all government offices, both Central and State and private undertakings to pay the Statutory cess @ 1% of the total project cost for each work by demand draft in favour of Arunachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction workers' Welfare Board, Itanagar.
Mr. Rokom Tayeng, Labour Officer, Changlang pointed as per the provisions of the Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Cess Act, 1996 and Rules framed there under, it mandatory on the part of all establishments engaging in building and construction activities to pay the 1% cess to the Welfare Board. And it is been confirmed by the ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, he added.

CHANGLANG, Feb 5: In order to counter the outbreak of bird flu in some States, the district administration has issued an executive order prohibiting import and transaction of poultry bird, poultry product and livestock to the district.
Issuing the order, Mr. Hage Batt, Deputy Commissioner, Changlang stated that information has been received from the State Government that disease of bird flu has broken out in some part of the country and that the disease normally spread from inflected poultry birds and livestock to human beings. As the transportation of the poultry bird, poultry product and livestock to the district risk outbreak of the disease, the district administration prohibits all its import and transaction.
Mr. Batt in his order further directed that District veterinary Officer, Changlang and his field functionaries to keep strict vigil and to arrange to seal the entry of poultry bird, poultry product and livestock to the district through the check gates and international entry points.
Dr. S.K. Puzari, DVO, Changlang informed that precaution measures have already taken as directed by the authority. He added, as such no cases of bird flu or any disease related to poultry bird, poultry product and livestock has been report in the district.

CHANGLANG, Feb 4: Health Minister Mr. C.C. Singpho inaugurated the eye camp at Diyun, Changlang district today. Senior district officials of the health department, local administration and Panchayati Raj leaders were present on the occasion amidst large number of public and patients.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Singpho appealed to the people to avail maximum benefit out of the camp. He also urged upon the medical officers and para medics to conduct the camp with sheer dedication and sincerity.
While advising on health care and hygiene, the health minister also highlighted on the initiatives of the government to address the problems in the health sector in the State.
Dr. Taba Khanna, Eye Specialist, District Hospital, Changlang informed that more than seven hundred patients were registered on the inaugural day and 100 operable case are admitted for operation. 150 more cases are expected tomorrow, he added.
It may be noted that the weeklong eye camp is being conducted by the District Blindness Control Society, Changlang. Along with Dr. Taba Khanna, eye specialist cum Secretary, DBCS, Changlang, Dr. K. Darang, General Hospital, Naharlagun is also in the camp for outdoor consultations, operations of cataract (Motiavindh) and oculoplastic cases (cosmetic repairs). Patients from Diyun, Innao, Miao and Deban of Changlang district and Namsai, Piyong and Negro of Lohit district are going to be benefited from the camp.

CHANGLANG, Feb 4: To carry out effective ban on child labour, the District Level Special Task Force committee under the Child Labour (Prohibition and regulation) Act, 1986 has been constituted for Changlang district. The Deputy Commissioner, Changlang is the chairman, while SP, DMO, DDSE, EE (PWD), PD (DRDA), CDPO, DDI, DIPRO of the district and Mrs. Reenu Mungrey are its members.
Highlighting on the duties of the members, Labour Officer, Mr. Rokom Tayeng, member Secretary of the committee informed that the special task force committee members will ensure that effective rehabilitation measures are supplemented by strong enforcement measures to prevent further entry of children into the work force. They will take up enforcement measures in targeted manner through inspectors and their performance on this front shall be closely monitored and hold meetings whenever required.
Mr. Tayeng further throwing light on the subject, the committee will carry out raids and inspections randomly to instill an element of deterance among the offenders and collect Rs. 20,000.00 (Rupees Twenty Thousand) only from the violators. It will provide food, shelter, clothing and manage special schools for children withdraw from work and help in restoring these children to their family, if required so. Along with creating all round awareness on the issue, the committee will coordinate with other related government departments for the rehabilitation of the withdrawn child and also secure cooperation from civil society, he added.

CHANGLANG, Feb 4: The District Level Advisory Board under the Child Labour (Prohibition and regulation) Act, 1986 has been constituted for Changlang district. The Deputy Commissioner, Changlang is the chairman, while DDSE, Changlang, CDPO, Changlang, DIPRO, Changlang and Mrs. Mariner K. Longchang, Principal, Green Lawn School, Changlang are the board members.
According to Mr. Rokom Tayeng, Labour officer cum member secretary, DLAB, Changlang, the board will manage the child Labour rehabilitation and also the Welfare fund within the jurisdiction of district administration. He pointed, the Welfare Fund, i.e. the amount of Rs. 20,000.00 (Rupees Twenty Thousand) realized against each child withdrawn by the inspectors and Special Task Force Committee. It is deposited in the Child Labour Rehabilitation cum Welfare fund and shall form a corpus whose income shall be used only for the concerned child, Tayeng said.

CHANGLANG, Feb 4: A condolence meeting was held in the office of Deputy Commissioner, Changlang to condole the sudden and pre-matured death of Dadung Dada, handyman, working in the office of District Food and Civil Supply Officer, Changlang. Led by Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Hage Batt, a two-minute silence was observed praying for eternal peace of the departed soul.
In a condolence message to Shri Sinkap Dada of Jeju Dada village, Seppa, father of Late Dadung, the officials expressed profound grief and offered heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family.
Late Dada joined government service on 26th May 1987 at the age of 24 years. After twenty years and nine months into the service, he expired on 3rd February 2008 in his govt. quarters at Changlang. Late dadung Dada is survived by his wife and two sons.

CHANGLANG, Feb 1: An eye camp by the District Blindness Control Society, Changlang is going to be conducted at Diyun, 136 km from Changlang from 4th to 9th February 2008. Mr. C.C. Singpho, minister Health will be inaugurating the camp.
Dr. Taba Khanna, eye specialist cum Secretary, DBCS, Changlang informed that senior eye specialists of the State including Dr. K. Darang, General Hospital, Naharlagun and Dr. A. Rehman, District Hospital, Khonsa will be in the camp for outdoor consultations, operations of cataract (Motiavindh) and oculoplastic cases (cosmetic repairs).
Dr. Taba, who had recently, gave training on eye screening tests to medical officers of the Primary Health Centres and community Health Centres of the district, informed that there are 300 cases of cataract which will be operated upon in the camp. He added more then 1000 patients from Diyun, Innao, Miao and Deban of the district and Namsai, Piyong and Negro of Lohit district will benefit from the camp.
While highlighting on the activities of the District Blindness Control Society, Changlang, the secretary informed that the society has been conducting eye related activities through out the district. School eye programmes, where students are examined for eye problems are carried out regularly along with training to medical officers, para medics and teachers on eye screen tests. Camps were organized in Miao and Jairampur in the recent past. He added, another eye camp by the society will be conducted in the first week of March.
It worth mentioning here that Sutureless cataract surgeries are being done regularly in District Hospital, Changlang.

CHANGLANG, Jan 30: The Martyrs’ day was observed with solemnity in the office of Deputy Commissioner, Changlang and other offices today on 30th January 2008 in memory of those who laid their lives in the struggles for India's freedom. And also to promote a sense of national integration and commitment to common goals and ideals among fellow citizens.
In the academic institutions it was observed to inculcate the duty and moral obligation of every citizen to preserve, protect and enrich the hard earned freedom amongst the students.

CHANGLANG, Jan 28: Recruitment for 16 (Sixteen) posts in the Territorial Army is going to conduct at 119 Infantry Battalion, Shillong on 6th February 2008.
According to an official communiqué, 15 vacancies are for the posts of soldier in general duties and one post for tradesman. Minimum qualification for tribal candidate is Class VIII pass for Soldier and Class V for Tradesman. Minimum height required is 160 cm, weight 50 kgs and in the age group of 18 to 42.

CHANGLANG, Jan 26: Along with rest of the country, the 59th Republic Day of India was observed at Changlang with great fanfare and patriotism. The Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Hage Batt, who was the chief guest on the occasion, hoisted the national tri-colour in the main parade ground and took salute of the marching contingences of APP, NCC and Scouts and Guides. Local MLA Wangnia Pongte, former ministers S. Ngemu and T. Taiju, SP, Kime Aya, Commandant 25 Assam Rifles, Col Robertson Vilawendran, district heads of department, officials and publics were present on the occasion.
In his republic day address, Mr. Batt recalled the contributions of freedom fighters and national leaders and paid profound homage to them.
Extending his Republic day greetings to all, the Deputy Commissioner dwelled in length on the development activities in the district. Up-gradation of EAC, Jairampur to ADC headquarters, he said has fulfilled the demand and aspiration of people of Jairampur sub division.
Touching on border trade, he informed that union minister for trade and commerce Jairam Ramesh, while opening the Border Trade Center at Nampong assured to take up with his counterpart of Myanmarese government to start trading activities between India and Myanmar within 2008. Ramesh had further assured that road from Pangsau Pass to nearest Myanmarese town may have to be financed and constructed by GOI as goodwill gesture to the government and the Myanmarese people for carrying out meaningful trading between two neighbouring countries which may in the next phase extend up to Yunnan province of South China and other South east countries, he stated.
Terming the 4th Namdapha Eco Cultural festival at Miao and 2nd Pangsau Pass Winter festival a grand success, Mr. Batt added public participation and trading have increased many folds, which is a very encouraging trend and is likely to improve if trade route is opened soon officially as assured by union minister.
Expressing his heartfelt appreciation to the State government, Batt informed that after a lapse of three years, the government has revived the decentralized planning process and earmarked an amount of 121.65 crores for the district. Calling upon the executing agencies and elected representatives to utilize the available fund judiciously with complete transparency and in time bound manner, the Deputy Commissioner further informed that 42 schemes have been approved for implementation under the Plan.
The Deputy Commissioner, in his speech also highlighted on the achievements of government departments. On education sector, he informed that there is no school in the district which has remained defunct during the academic session and almost all the schools of the district have been provided with two teachers. 24 schools have been upgraded and 21 primary schools opened in the interior and remote areas of the district. To arrest drop outs, 100 Education Guarantee Centers and 80 Early Education Care centers have been opened.
Dwelling on centrally sponsored schemes, Batt said, National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, a newly introduced scheme in the district will provide employment opportunities while creating durable assets for the local people in the rural areas. He added, under this scheme the annual target is 549 nos. of works to be taken up. 95,000 man-days have already been generated until now. Under SGSY, the annual target is 608 Nos. for individuals and 9 Nos. for Self Help Groups. 77 individuals and 3 SHG have already been assisted by giving subsidy grants. Under Indira Awas Yojana, 223 new houses have been constructed and 114 houses upgraded. Under PMGSY, 5 roads have been taken up by RWD and many new roads are in the pipeline to be taken up under Bharat Nirman.
Mr. Batt disclosed, one major project of road construction, i.e. road from Vijoynagar, via Miao, Kharsang, Jairampur, Manmao, Changlang, Khaimiyang and Sonku Havi to Laju in Tirap district has been approved by the GOI under Special Accelerated Road Construction Programme NE.
Under border area development programme, 64 schemes have been sanctioned within the fund provision of 1.24 crores and another 203 schemes with estimated cost of 6.90 crores have been proposed for the current financial year. Under MLALAD schemes, 29 schemes have been sanctioned against fund allotment of 1.88 crore for the year 2007-08, he added.
Urging veterinary department and local populace for vigilance and caution against bird flu, the Deputy Commission said, despite outbreak of epidemic and bird flu across the International Border and neighbouring States, the district has remained free of such epidemic.
Moving on to the employment initiatives and opportunities under departments of Industry, Textiles and Handicrafts, Mr. Batt called upon the youths of the district to avail every employment opportunities rendered by the Army, Assam Rifles and police. He also urged upon them to prepare themselves for competitive examinations conducted by Public Service Commission.
Cautioning against anti social elements, the Deputy Commissioner appealed to the people to extend cooperation to the army and security forces for peace and tranquility in the district. Barring the unfortunate incident at Bordumsa, he said, the district has been by and large peaceful throughout the year. Batt extended his sincere gratitude to 25 Sector Commander, 19 Kumaon Regiment, 29 Assam Rifles, 25 Assam Rifles, 159 Battalion of the CRPF, State Police, Gaon Burahs and Public leaders and said, it was due to their excellent work and cooperation to the civil administration, peace and development is there in the district.
The chief guest concluded his speech with commendation to marching contingences and AR Band for their smart turn out and excellent performance.
On the auspicious occasion, Inspector S.B. Gohain, CI, Miao, ASI K.K. Baruah, Diyun, Fr. Avon Vaz, Nampong, Mr. Thambo Mossang, Nampong, Mrs. Kopley Mossang, ASM, Manmao and Mr. Dantang Tungkhang, HGB, Saching Village were honoured with commendation certificates along with cash awards for their contribution in anti-crime operation, anti-drugs campaign and social service by the district administration. Master Vaskar Sharma, Miss Geeta kumari and Master Sandeep Dey, all students of Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang were also honoured with commendation certificate and cash awards for representation of the district and state in national level literary activities. They received the certificates and awards from the chief guest of the celebration.
One contingence each of Arunachal Pradesh Police and National cadet Corps and eight contingences of scouts and guides took part in the parade, commanded by Sub Inspector W. Wangsu. To adding colour to the festive occasion, students of Government Higher Secondary School, Changlang, Holy Rosary Primary school, Laktong, Green Lawn School, Changlang and Rang Frah Vidhya Niketan, Changlang presented patriotic songs and dances and traditional ballet. Starting with 'Surya Namaskar,' a mass PT display was performed by more then 500 students from different schools of the Changlang town. Band of 25 Assam Rifles also gave an entertaining display.
The district administration conducted games and sports for the children. Departments of agriculture, education, fisheries, textile and handicrafts, health, horticulture and Assam Rifles installed exhibition stalls. Local MLA, W. Pongte inaugurated it. Stall of education was selected as the best stall in the day.

REPUBLIC DAY OBSERVED AT NAMTOK

CHANGLANG, Jan 28: Ask not what country can do for you but ask what you can do for the country, quoted Mr. W. Mossang, Circle Officer, in-charge EAC Namtok in his speech in the republic day celebration at Namtok, 55 km from Changlang. While paying homage to the freedom fighters and leaders, Mr. Mossang urged upon the youths to cherish the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Nehruji and Patelji and inculcate patriotism and shun violence.
Earlier, Mossang took salute of the marching contingencies of IR Bn troupe and scouts and guides. The daylong celebration in the remote outpost, which was observed with great patriotism and fanfare, includes patriotic cultural programme by students of Secondary School, Namtok and primary schools of neighbouring villages. A volleyball match between the villages of the circle was conducted in addition to games and sports competition for the children.

CHANGLANG, Jan 24: With rest of the State, the medical department of Changlang district conducted the intensive Pulse polio Immunization programme 2008 from 20th to 22nd January 2008. Of the 23,296 targeted children of the age group 0 to 5 years, 22, 805 were vaccinated.<br>

According to health department communiqué, the short fall has occurred as the programme is yet to be conducted at Vijaynagar area. It will be done on 28th January 2008 as air force sorties to Vijaynagar will be available on that day.
<br>

Giving further details, the communiqué says, 4,955 children were vaccinated by medical team after visiting 22,997 houses in the second and third day. 99 children were also vaccinated outside their houses, while 204 were done at transit points. To ensure cent percent implementation, medical teams repeated visited more then 20 houses and vaccinated 6 children. On the top, supervisors, rechecked 521 houses, which were already visited medical teams and vaccinated 13 children, which were missed by the teams.
It may be noted that there were 180 posts all over the district in addition to 14 mobile units and 2 transit posts. More then seven hundred medical officers and para medical staffs were engaged for the three-day programme. <br>

CHANGLANG, Jan 23: An open recruitment rally for youths and ex-servicemen hailing from Arunachal Pradesh is going to be conducted at Jairampur in Changlang district from 3rd to 7th March 2008.
According to an Assam Rifles communiqué, recruitment will be held for 341 (Three hundred and forty one) posts in Group C and D categories. Giving details, it says, in Group C category, there are 238 (Two hundred and thirty eight) posts of Riflemen and driver, 20 (Twenty) posts for electricians, 16 (Sixteen) each for electrical fitter signal and plumbers, 8 (Eight) posts for radio mechanic, 5 (Five) posts of Lineman, 2 (two) posts each of clerk and pharmacist and 1 (one) each for post of Operation Room Assistant and black smith. 89 (Eighty nine) posts reserved for Scheduled Tribes. In group D, seven posts are there for carpenter, 6 (six) posts for Safai, 1 (one) each for barber, tailor, washer man and equipment boot repair. 8 (Eight) posts reserved for scheduled Tribes candidates.
The communiqué further says, for ex-servicemen in Group-c, there are 10 (ten) posts for Electrical Fitter Signal, 6 (six) posts for rifleman and driver and 1 (one) each for plumber, electrician and radio mechanic. In the Group D category for ex-servicemen, there are 3 (three) posts for cook and 1 (one) each for barber and safai. 5 (Five) posts in Group C and 2 (Two) posts in Group D are reserved for scheduled tribe candidates in this category.
Age limit is 18 to 23 years with relaxation of 5 years maximum for scheduled tribe candidates as on 3rd March 2008. Height for tribal is kept at 162.5 cms and chest at 76 cms.

CHANGLANG, Jan 23: The list of amendments to the draft electoral Roll for 52-Changlang (South) ST Assembly Constituency and 53-Changlang (North) ST Assembly Constituency are published and are available for inspection in the office of Electoral Registration Officer and in the offices of Assistant Electoral Registration Officers of Changlang district.
According to communiqué received from Electoral Registration Officer, Changlang, the list of amendments has been prepared with reference to 1st January 2008 as the qualifying date and in accordance with the Registration of Electors' Rules, 1960.

JAIRAMPUR, Jan 22: The grand finale of the second Pangsau Pass Winter Festival ended with ethnic fashion show tonight at Nampong. Local models in indigenous attires adored with rich designs took part in the three round catwalks. Local singers added flavour to the much awaited programme.
The finale began with words of gratitude to one and all for their contribution by local MLA Setong Sena, Speaker, State Legislative Assembly, the man behind the show. Mr. Sena credited the success of the festival to the organizing committee, volunteers and the participants. He profusely thanked the Assam Rifles, CRPF, APP, ADC, Jairampur M.Roy and EAC, Nampong, N.M. Das for the security arrangement.
While expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the cultural troupes from Myanmar, Assam, Mizoram, others districts and from district itself, Mr. Sena thanked the women participants for the role in the success of the festival. Informing that the festival has been organized with contribution from the business houses, State and others, Speaker also thanked the government departments, its officers and staffs for the great show inspite of financial constrains. He thanked the villagers for the construction of main festival stage which has the signature of traditional expertise.
Pledging to do it better in the next festival, Mr. Sena assured a media cell during the next festival with internet and other facilities.
Mr. Sena made special mention of ADC, Jairampur and DDSE T.Morang in the success of the festival.
Before concluding his speech, Speaker and local MLA, Setong Sena, who stood strongly behind organizing committee to script the Pangsau Pass Winter Festival 2008 a success story, appealed to the volunteers and local populace for their support in the organizing of the next winter festival.
Earlier in the day, marathon race, themed "Run for Peace" was organized where 74 participants including ladies took part. The seven kilometer course, which began from Namgoi Forest Gate, went pass "Hell Gate" and then concluded at Festival ground. Unfortunately, the much awaited Pangsau Pass car rally could not be conducted due to inclement weather.
The sports event was followed by an open house discussion on tradition and custom. Local MLA, Assembly Speaker Mr Setong Sena, senior citizens and educated youths took part in it. The evening began with presentation of traditional dances.
It worth mentioning here that due to the personal supervisions of local MLA Setong Sena, Speaker, State Legislative Assembly and Additional Deputy Commissioner, M Roy, no law and order problem was report throughout the festival.
It also be noted that the civil administration, Jairampur made all out effort to ensure that festival participants and tourists get Innerline Pass with minimum effort without compromising with its rule. Passes were also issued to interested persons to visit the Pangsau Pass and also for visit to 'The lake of No Return' located across the border.
The Pangsau Pass Winter Festival has helped in unearthing the magnificent secluded places of this part of the State. It also gave ample opportunities to the adventurous people to drive along the historical Stilwell Road which is the imperative route of trade for the entire North East. On the way to the festival ground, there is the Second World War cemetery that reminds about the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers to protect our tomorrow.
All through out the festival, volunteers and organizers gave special efforts in providing information and in facilitating visitors, tourists and participants to enjoy the annual festival. People had good time going around the exhibition stalls, especially the photo section, which exhibited photographs from Second World War. Large numbers were seen around the stalls for local handicrafts and handloom sections. Others feasted on the delicious delicacies and drinks. Festivity rose to its optimum during the ethnic fashion show, last event of grand winter festival.

JAIRAMPUR, Jan 21: The day was for the traditional sports in the second Pangsau Pass Winter festival at Nampong today. Archery with indigenous bows and arrows, stick walk and stone throwing competitions main events. Large numbers of local people and others took part in the competitions.
Inspite of time to time showers, it could not dampen the enthusiasm in the cultural programme. Cultural troupes from Myanmar, Mizoram and tribes from different parts of the state gave a wonderful cultural show. Melodious numbers by the local singers of the district and the state added colour to it. The programme, which started with a festival song by the students of Government secondary school, Nampong was graced by Brigadier VSBS Cherukupalli, DIG, 25 Sector, Assam Rifles. He was accompanied by Colonel Rajeshwar Singh, SC, Commandant, 29 Assam Rifles. Speaker Setong Sena, the local MLA was also present on the occasion feels that festival is a big business, if people could encash it.
Earlier in the day, it was Tangsa ethnic songs presentation, which craved an atmosphere of rich traditions amongst the people who came far and wide to witness the annual winter festival.
Day was also for the people to visit the famous Lake of No Return. Caravan of cars were seen going and return through the Arunachal Pradesh’s part of Stilwell road.

JAIRAMPUR, Jam 20: Through the festivals, we can preserve our identity, Mr. Phosum Khimhun, MLA, Chairman DoTC said while inaugurating the second Pangsau Passs Winter festival 2008 as the chief guest at Nampong, Changlang district today. We have always stressed, we should preserve our age old customs and traditions. To do, he added, we have to organize these kind festivals which gives a right platform to elder and younger generations to interact. It’s an stage where our future generation come in touch of our rich cultural heritage, that way helps its continuance. If our culture is preserved, our identity will remain intact, he pointed.
The chief guest of the occasion, while highlighting on the importance of Pangsau Pass Winter festival said, it is a roadmap for the Indo-Myanmar friendship through revival of famous Stilwell Road and border trade. It also gives an opportunity for cultural exchanges between India and Myanmar and also between Arunachal Pradesh and Asom. It also give exposure to it tourism potential.
Mr. Khimhun informed that as an encouragement towards the festival and reflecting its importance, Mr. Dorjee Khandu, chief minister has announced an amount of rupees one lakh rupees for the festival, which was greeted with huge applauses. On his part as the chairman of the DoTC, Mr. Khimhun announced another amount of rupees twenty thousand for it. He also released the festival souvenir, titled ‘Poi’ and also released two music albums, titled, ‘Tangsa Golden Oldies’ produced by Laisum Simai and Khumsom Sena and ‘Sainya’ by Mrs. Chopi Tikhak.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Mr. Setong Sena, Speaker, who is the man behind the festival, said, the festival aims to provide our youths to ample opportunity to know the very rich and unique cultural heritage we have inherit from our forefathers. More over, the festival gives an exposure to the outer world, the customs and practice which was a mystery till the other day.
Extending his festival and New Year greetings, Sena pointed, the activities of the festival include traditional games and sports. Its not gives our youths a platform to exhibit but also sharpen their natural talent an instincts.
On the other hand, the Speaker, State legislative assembly said, it will help in revival of our border trade, help building strong bond of friends between the people of India and Myanmar and also people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam through cultural exchange and economic activities.
While expressing regret on behalf of Mr. tako Dabi, minister WRD and Parliamentary Affairs, who was to inaugurate the annual event, Sena informed that due to inclement weather he could not come but he has extended his greetings and best wishes for the grand success of the festival and to the participants.
The festival began with cultural extravaganza, where troupes from different tribes of the State, including Apatani, Nyishi, Adi, Galo, nocte, Monpa, Lisu and Tangsa displayed a colourful and vibrant presentation. Highlights of the show were performance of the troupes from Myanmar and scintillating Bihu dance from Assam. A band display by the Assam Rifles band added flavour to the programme.
A signature campaign was organized in support of the phase, ‘we stand and sign for peace and unity.’ Palmlets against use of polythene by Namchik Valley Society for Eco Tourism and Wild life conservation were seen in the festival ground.
Large numbers of tourists including foreigners were seen enjoying the festivity. The visitors include, Deputy Speaker of Assam state Legislative Assembly, high profile officials from Arunachal Pradesh and other states.
Since early morning, people were seen rushing to Nampong. Every stalls, shops and exhibition was packed with enthusiastic visitors. Rushes were seen in the counter issuing Passes for journey to ‘Lake of No Return’, Second World War photographs and Myanmarese gift stalls. Local delicacies and drinks were there for taste and fulfillment.
According to M. Roy, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jairampur, the programme for day two include traditional sports display and presentation of ‘Shawi, Tangsa ethnic songs. The grand finale will be on 22nd January, which includes ‘Run for Peace’, joy ride to Lake of No Return and ethnic fashion show.

JAIRAMPUR, Jan 19: The beautiful Valley of Nampong in Changlang district is gearing up for the annual Pangsau Pass Winter Festival 2008. Festival mood and activities of the festival have already begun. Along with departmental stalls of agriculture, horticulture and others, there are 120 food stalls to provide delicious indigenous delicacies. More then 600 cultural troupe participants have come in the best for the three the festival.
Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jairampur Mr. M. Roy informed that more then five to six hundred guests are expected to come during the festival, which includes, MLAs from neighbouring states, foreigners. Apart from participants from different parts of the districts, there are participants from Myanmar and Assam.
Roy, who was personally supervising the arrangement for the grant event said, people’s participant in this year’s festival is more then ones that were held before, which may be construed as a sign for grand success. Regarding other arrangement including law and order, ADC informed, apart from school volunteers, civil police and CRPF, the Assam Rifles are also providing necessary assistances.
The festival, which aims to focus on the tourism and border trade potential of the area and also revival of Stilwell Road, will be inaugurated by Mr. Tako Dabi, minister WRD and Parliamentary Affairs tomorrow.

CHANGLANG, Jan 18: State minister for water Resources Development and Parliamentary affairs, Mr. Tako Dabi is going to inaugurate the Pangsau Pass Winter Festival 2008 at Nampong on 20th January 2008.
Three-day cultural extravaganza will be display of the rich cultural heritage, customs and practices of the state with a focus on the tribes of eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh.
The highlight of the first day of the annual event includes tribal beverage carnival, indigenous food fiesta along with traditional dances and variety shows. The day two is for traditional sports display and presentation of 'Shawi, Tangsa ethnic songs. The grand finale will be on 22nd January, which includes 'Run for Peace', joy ride to Lake of No Return and ethnic fashion show.

CHANGLANG, Jan 18: The Changlang district health department along with other departments is gearing up for the intensive Pulse polio Immunization programme 2008. 23,296 will be immunized during the immunization. The three-day programme will start on 20th January 2008.
Dr. Neeva Lowang, DRCHO in-charge DMO informed that there will 180 posts all over the district in addition to 14 mobile units and 2 transit posts. More then seven hundred medical officers and staff will be engaged for the programme.
In order to ensure proper implementation of the programme, Dr. Lowang said, a task force was set up with all the district heads of department and admin officers as its member for proper coordination and cooperation. A day-long training for the post coordinators was also conducted on 17th of January 2008,
Under the district hospital, Changlang, 2530 children will be targeted through 33 posts, one mobile and two transit posts, informed Dr. P. Dutta, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Changlang. The personnel of 25 Assam Rifles will be also engaged for the health programme, he added.

CHANGLANG, Jan 17: Use of MPLAD and MLALAD funds for State Share is the best means for utilization of the fund, Lok Sabha member Mr. Tapir Gao said while interacting with government officials and public leaders here today. Citing his initiatives and achievements, he said, I always advise my friends and State MLAs to use their local area development funds for centrally sponsored schemes, where 10 to 20 % State Share is required. Doing so, they can bring immense prosperity in every corner of the State.
Inquiring on the power potential of River Tirap, Gao said, it is one of the few rivers in the state, where we are yet to take up power projects. Informing that some big power houses are interested in taking up tunnel system power projects in the district.
On the 33 KV transmission line from Khonsa to Changlang, he informed that NEC is ready to provide fund and he is earnestly pursuing for its early construction.
Touching on education, the Lok Sabha member made queries on the implementation of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) in the district. He said, CAG report of NE States says that it is not implemented according to the prescribed guidelines. We are taking up about it very seriously in the Parliament, Gao added.
Gao informed that he has already taken up railway projects for Roing, Miao and Nampong with the Union Railway minister. He pointed, with laying of railway tracks, the transportation cost will drastically come down. Moreover with checking gates at each station, there will no compromising with innerline rules. Gao added, under his initiative, railway ticketing counters have already set up at Roing, Pasighat and Tezu. And now I am going for counters at Anini, Changlang, Khonsa and Hayuliang. It will not only help the local people but also to those from other States serving in Arunachal Pradesh.
Mr. Gao, who represents the eastern Parliamentary constituency also abreast himself on the centrally sponsored programmes under health, Haryali and other sectors.
On the roads and communication, he was informed by the concerned officers that at present the road between Changlang and Khonsa is through. He was also apprised of the problem tele-communication in the area.
Earlier, Mr. H. Matcha, EAC (Jud) apprised the member of Parliament on the development activities in the district. B.K. Nhuyan, Principal, Rang Frah Government College, Chang apprised Mr. Gao on the achievements and problems of the college.
Pleading for fund for the construction of fencing and repair of the school building, Principal, Govt Higher Secondary School, Changlang tried to impressed upon the MP, that to maintain proper disciple in the school and to have proper atmosphere in the school campus, these works have to be prioritized.
On his arrival to the district headquarters, Mr. Gao was accorded a warm reception by district officials and public leaders.

CHANGLANG, Jan 17: Inculcate scientific temper amongst the young students. Teach them to dream big, Mr. Tapir Gao, member of parliament (Lok sabha) said, while addressing the annual day function of Shree Rang Frah Vidhya Niketan, Changlang here today. In order to utilize our manpower in the future, inculcate spirit of enterprising in the fields of horticulture and agriculture, where we have huge potential, he added.
While having words of appreciation for the school management, Gao said, Vidhya Bharati has unique philosophy for education. Character building, family affiliation and self development are given importance. Maintaining and preserving the local traditions and customs, they been successful in providing basics of education to the children.
The chief guest appealed to the teachers not to work for the sake of the job but work with missionary zeal to bring social and economic transform in the district.
Mr. Gao also urged upon the parents to compete among themselves in bringing up the wards in the best means. He also advised them to have interactions with their children and keep a watch on their report cards. Inculcate the importance of education in the young mind. Educate them morally and socially, he stressed.
Deputy Commandant 25 Assam Rifles, M.S. Yadav, who was the guest of honour, in his address assured to help the children and school management in every way possible.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Secretary, School Management Committee and former minister, Mr. Tingkap Taiju, informed that Shree Rang Frah Vidhya Niketan was opened in September 1994 as one of the first school of Arunachal Shiksha Vikash Samity, which is the state Committee of Vidhya Bharati in Arunachal Pradesh. Beginning with Classes from LKG to Class III, it was up-graded to Class VIII in 1999-2000. Today it has 190 students, with 26 teachers and six non-teaching staff, he added.
Profusely thanking the Assam Rifles for the contribution towards the development of the school, Taiju informed that the school has been set up with the help of donation from local populace and public sarmdhan.
Secretary pleaded the Member of Parliament for his help in improvement of campus road and in construction of dinning hall for the boarders.
A colourful cultural programme was present on the occasion. Traditional dances, prayer and patriotic songs and dance drama were the highlight of the programme. Former minister Tengam Ngemu, parents and public leaders were present on the occasion.